Baggies get Barnes signature
Barnes was released by Derby in December
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By Matt Hallam. |  |
Wednesday, 03, Feb 2010 02:35
By Will Haine.
Giles Barnes has joined West Bromwich Albion on an 18-month contract, having been released by Derby County.
The 21-year-old attacker was a free agent after Derby terminated his contract in December having been sidelined with a ruptured Achilles tendon since August.
Barnes made his Derby debut aged just 17, and some eye-catching performances saw interest from Premier League clubs. But chronic injury problems have seen him make just 82 appearances since his debut in 2005.
He went to Fulham on loan with a view to a permanent move in the 2009 transfer window, but injuries hampered him yet again as he failed to make a single appearance for the Cottagers.
The former England under-19 international has been training with West Brom since January, and Baggies manager Roberto di Matteo is hopeful that he can regain the form and fitness he showed early in his career.
"Giles has had his injury problems over the past couple of seasons but he has undoubted ability," said ex-Chelsea midfielder Di Matteo.
"He is making good progress in his recovery from his Achilles problem and we're giving him all the support he needs.
"We've seen enough encouraging signs to offer him this deal, which has been structured to suit all parties.
"There is no question that if Giles can get his career back on track, we'll have a very talented player on our hands."
West Brom currently sit third in the Championship and face Blackpool tonight as they look for a return to the Premier League at the first attempt.