Ebbsfleet United midfielder Finlay Barnes happy in supporting role but impressive form has made him one of manager Josh Wright’s headline acts

Gifted midfielder Finlay Barnes has admitted it’s a joy to play for Ebbsfleet.

The 25-year-old is showing Fleet fans why manager Josh Wright signed him in the summer with a series of impressive displays in recent weeks.

Barnes scored twice in the 4-0 win over AFC Totton last Saturday and won a penalty during Ebbsfleet’s 2-2 National League South draw at Bath on Tuesday night.

As one of numerous players supporting leading scorer Dominic Samuel, the role is clearly bringing the best out of Barnes.

“I do enjoy it but I just like being on the pitch, to be honest,” said Barnes. “Wherever I’m playing, whatever sort of job I’m given, I try to do that the best I can.

“I do enjoy the position. I get to pick up a lot of little pockets and get on the ball and try and create stuff for the strikers and for other players and, obviously, goals for myself as well.

“It’s nice to play with a lot of the boys in midfield, they make it a lot easier.

“It gives us a lot of options through the middle if one player’s being marked or isn’t on, then someone else can come and get on the ball.

“I love playing football and when we’re playing with confidence, playing forward and creating stuff, it’s a joy to play with.”

Barnes, who can also operate as a winger, is enjoying his time at Stonebridge Road.

He added: “I’ve always played as a winger or in the No.10 behind the striker.

“I just like to float around and try to find the space in the game myself. So, whether it’s on the wing or from the middle, I’m happy to do whatever.”

There’s something extra pleasing on the eye about left-footed players who dribble past opponents at ease.

“I need to work on my right foot!” responds Barnes.

“But I obviously work a lot on my finishing and stuff like that.

“I’ve