We all know that Vasilis Barkas hasn’t had the most enthralling start to life in Glasgow. After a poor start under Neil Lennon, Barkas was in and out of the team frequently as he, Conor Hazard and Scott Bain struggled for form in what has been a largely underwhelming season defensively. His constant removal from the starting XI may have been something to do with the fact he cost £5m and Lennon expected better; however, he is expected to move into the upcoming season as the new managers’ first choice between the sticks.
As such, it seems rather bizarre that a goalkeeper who has had absolutely nothing to do with the Scottish League throughout his career – or his life for that matter – has come out and written the Greek off, as he believes fans will contribute negatively to his performances.
You don’t want to turn up next season and be getting grief when fans are allowed back in. He’ll be dreading it.”
Paddy Kenny, the Yorkshire-born Irishman who picked up just 7 caps for the Boys in Green, has been quoted as saying in an interview that Barkas will come under intense scrutiny from us Parkhead faithful, and that the added pressure will prove too much for him.
A bit condescending perhaps, from the man who is solely remembered for two things – being the man between the sticks for the infamous 90th minute winner scored by Sergio Aguero to win Manchester City their first Premier League title, and allowing Phil Jagielka to keep a clean sheet against Arsenal via an injury he picked up – hardly an inspiring CV!
The strangest factor is that Kenny believes the Celtic support will hound Barkas out if he plays poorly; however, that is most likely the main problem of his Celtic career – he hasn’t yet played in front of a sold-out Celtic Park. Also, does Kenny seriously think that the first thing Celtic fans are going to do when they’re allowed back into Paradise is give Barkas pelters? Obviously that won’t be the first thing on the itinerary.
Speaking to Football Insider, Kenny said: “You don’t want to be somewhere you’re not liked. You don’t want to turn up next season and be getting grief when fans are allowed back in. He’ll be dreading it.”
“It will be a tough one if fans are on his case. It’s been a tough year for everyone. You’ve got to cut people a little bit of slack. I’ve said it all along. It depends how he can deal with it. Me personally, I’d be able to handle it, but it depends on how strong-willed he is.”
Paddy Kenny’s opinion is something that exists, but it is worth nothing.
Barkas will be absolutely fine I believe. I don’t think our management team were any help to him.
Judging by the form of all 3 goalkeepers last season and the form of many of our defence, I think the fault of the malaise lies with the management, coaches etc.