West Brom: Leon Barnett determined to make it a season to remember

Aug 9 2009 By Chris Lepkowski

LAST season wasn’t always kind to Leon Barnett.

Singled out for Tony Mowbray’s criticism following games against Villa and Fulham, his season petered out after a series of niggling injuries.

But the centre-half is now ready for the Championship campaign.

The 23-year-old admits he was perhaps not quite ready for the demands of the Premier League.

“The last few months of the season were very hard,” said the ex-Luton defender.

“I couldn’t play and do anything about the results.

“This year I have to steer clear of injury and try to get back in the team.

“It won’t be easy because new players will be coming in and others may be staying but that’s the aim.

“Every season brings new challenges. I view this season as a clean slate. I’m going to get as many games as I can, more than last year, and be more successful,” Barnett said.

“I personally have learned a lot from playing in the Premier League.