West Bromwich Albion defender is ready to fight for his place

Dec 18 2008 by Chris Lepkowski

LEON Barmett has warned Albion’s central defenders that he is ready to reclaim his place in the team.

The 23-year-old has not played since Albion’s defeat to Villa back in September, when he endured a miserable afternoon against John Carew.

Barnett was singled out by Tony Mowbray, who had been forced to bring him into the team at the last minute after Abdoulaye Meite was injured during the warm-up.

He was dropped following his display against Villa before suffering a knee injury which required a minor operation.

But Barnett is back in contention and was recently praised by Mowbray for his patience and his work-rate during training.

Mowbray may decide to make changes for this Sunday’s game against Manchester City following last week’s defeat to Sunderland, which could open the door for Barnett.

“This could definitely be my chance,” Barnett told the Birmingham Mail.

“There’s a few of us sitting there, being patient and waiting but