League Two new boys Barnet have confirmed the signing of Ben Winterburn on loan from Premier League side AFC Bournemouth.
The Bees have had a rocky start to their first season back in the EFL, losing their first three games in both league and cup, but Dean Brennan’s side have recovered to claim seven points from their next three games. They gear up to face Luton Town in their first EFL Trophy game of the season tomorrow night and have already added new reinforcements ahead of their trip to Kenilworth Road.
Winterburn Arrives
Barnet revealed they have signed Ben Winterburn on a season-long loan from Bournemouth early on transfer deadline day, adding new options to the midfield for the North London side. This marks his first loan within the EFL, having previously played for AFC Totton and Weymouth two seasons ago.
However, Winterburn has emerged as a serious bench option for the Cherries upon the arrival of Spanish manager Andoni Iraola, who has used him seven times in senior matches, the most recent of which came earlier this month in their 4-2 loss away at reigning Premier League champions Liverpool.
Speaking about the signing, Bees boss Dean Brennan said to club media:
“Ben is a player we have been tracking since last summer, and his progress in the past 12 months has been great. He will bring athleticism and high fitness levels, as well as quality in possession and his profile fits what we are looking for.”
Barnet have released players like Harry Chapman and Billy Clifford this summer and have upgraded their options in the middle of the pitch with Dennis Adeniran and Emmanuel Osadebe, both joining on free transfers.
Writers’ View
This is a good move to make for Barnet as they look to add the final pieces to their side for the first half of this season. While Dean Brennan did state at the end of July he was happy with his business for the window, when an opportunity arises to make a new signing, you have to take it. Winterburn will be able to gain crucial senior experience at this level but enters a very competitive dressing room with the sheer number of options Barnet have in the middle of the pitch. His versatility may also be a key benefit, with the defensive midfielder also able to fill in at centre-back if needed.
