Memories in pictures of Watford career of John Barnes

Less than two months after signing as a teenager from Sudbury Court, John Barnes was to make his Hornets debut and soon established himself as a regular as the Hornets achieved promotion to the old First Division under Graham Taylor.

With his often dazzling skill, wing play and attacking ability, Barnes was to shine as Watford finished as runners-up in the Football League, reached Europe, their first FA Cup final and continued to hold their own at the top table of the domestic game.

After 233 league appearances and 65 goals, Barnes left Vicarage Road in June 1987 to join Liverpool where he would go on to win five major trophies – but for six full seasons Watford fans had been treated to watching the most gifted of players during the greatest period in the club’s history.

Barnes strikes a free-kick against Newcastle at a soaking Vicarage Road. (Image: Watford Observer)

Here are some memories in pictures from our archive of John Barnes’ career at Vicarage Road for you to enjoy again.

Barnes with the Young Player of the Month award for September 1983. (Image: Watford Observer)

Dennis Wise looks on as Barnes runs at Wimbledon. (Image: Watford Observer)

Barnes shares a joke with late Watford groundsman Les Simmons. (Image: Watford Observer)

Tottenham's Steve Perryman tries to stop Barnes. (Image: Watford Observer)

Barnes with Player of the Season Les Taylor, Nigel Callaghan, Steve Sherwood and Luther Blissett at the Hornets' 1982 awards night. (Image: Watford Observer)

Barnes tries to reach the ball against Liverpool. (Image: Watford Observer)

Barnes and Blissett in a celebratory embrace. (Image: Watford Observer)

Barnes looks on as the Hornets pile the pressure on Manchester United. (Image: Watford Observer)