Barnes-Homer eyes Matthews union

The hotshot forward, who is on standby for the England C squad against Poland later this month, is not completely happy with his efforts despite topping the Harriers scoring charts with seven goals so far.

But circumstances have often gone against Barnes-Homer this season, with the 23-year-old coming into the campaign with a knee injury while the lack of a regular partner has put paid to any chance of a partnership.

For a man who was part of a duo that netted 21 goals apiece last season with Justin Richards, that has presented a problem.

Big striker Robbie Matthews was brought in as a foil in August but has struggled himself with a hamstring injury and suspension, but is now midway through two free weeks to get back up to speed on the training field.

And when the understanding between the two finally comes, Barnes-Homer feels it could be to both their benefit.

He said: "There is more to come from me, because so far I have been up and down all season. There have been some games when I have not been at my best, but I have played pretty much every game so I am pleased with that.

"I have not really had a chance to get a partnership going yet, either someone has got injured or suspended, so it's been tough in that respect. Robbie is back now, but is lacking a bit of sharpness because of the injury and suspension that he has had.

"He's working hard over that over this period to get back up to full fitness again, and when he gets to that level I am sure we can strike up a good partnership again."

On the international front, Barnes-Homer has set his sights on finally winning his first 'C' cap, after last being on standby without making the cut in the summer.

He said: "It's always nice to be recognised by your country, hopefully something can happen that can get me a proper place in the squad. I probably deserved a place more last season, but it wasn't to be then.

"This season, it's great to be called up again, but I really want to be given the chance to show what I can do."