HE dropped three divisions to sign for Chester FC – but Bradley Barnes is convinced he can climb back up the football pyramid with the Blues.
The 22-year-old midfielder, a summer acquisition from Blue Square Premier side Southport, has no regrets about stepping back into the Evo-Stik League this season.
His has become a hit with the Blues faithful thanks to his box-to-box, high-tempo play and eye for goal.
And Barnes reckons back-to-back promotions are a distinct possibility.
“The players who we have here at Chester are more than good enough to win this league and the one above, which is something that we definitely have to aim for,” said the former Bolton Wanderers trainee.
“I’m really enjoying my time at Chester and we just want to stay on top of the pile.”
Barnes’ early-season performances for Chester attracted admiring glances from teams higher up the non- league ladder, prompting manager Neil Young to tie the player down to a new 18-month deal in October.
“There were a few clubs sniffing around but I’m more than happy at Chester and don’t want to leave,” said Barnes, who works with his dad as a floorer and tiler in Manchester.
“I was delighted to sign a new deal and that Neil wanted to keep hold of me.”
While training with Blue Square North side Droylsden during pre-season, Trafford-based Barnes received a call from Young. Before he knew it, he was a Chester player.
“There were a lot of things changing at Droylsden so I was made up to get the call from Neil,” said Barnes, who has bagged six goals this term. “He asked me to come down and train with the lads and a week later I signed for the club.”
Barnes, who has previously experienced life in Evo-Stik First Division North with Trafford in 2008, revealed that has been revelling in the atmosphere created at the Exacta Stadium.
“The fans have been great and it is a real buzz to play in front of so many people,” said Barnes, a member of the Blues side which suffered a rare home defeat to Radcliffe Borough on Saturday.
“For me, it makes my football more enjoyable and gives me a real rush. I know it’s the same for a lot of the lads and it really helps us put in a performance.”
Barnes has one eye firmly fixed on his future with Chester and is already looking forward to the next campaign.
“It will be nice next year to be involved in more cup competitions and, hopefully, a higher level of football,” he said.
“We have the FA Trophy to look forward to next year but, before that, we have to en sure we are league champions at the end of this season. That is the most important thing.”
