Newcastle United have kickstarted a late ascent up the Premier League ladder with a number of quality performances and results – no thanks to Monaco loanee Antonio Barreca.

The ex-Torino man arrived from talent refining powerhouse Monaco in January as cover for Wales international Paul Dummett but has since failed miserably to establish himself in the team.

This will have come as a disappointing blow for those Newcastle fans who were excited about the prospect of an immensely talented player turning out for their team – one who was hungry to prove himself after being exiled by Thierry Henry; someone former Torino boss Sinisa Mihajlovic believed could be “become of one the best left-backs in Italy” (as per Chronicle Live).

In reality, Barreca has been very poor.

Chronicle writer Lee Ryder said: “Barreca has not impressed since coming in from Monaco on loan. Paul Dummett has been injured but Barreca has not stepped up.

“The fact that Matt Ritchie has played out of position ahead of him tells you everything you need to know.” (Chronicle Live Q&A 19:48).

Of course, it is always a shame when players fail to fulfil their touted potential – and Newcastle fans will be especially conscious of the consequences this flop could have on their future transfer plans.

Indeed, Mike Ashley will be keeping a keen eye on the progress of his signings and if he feels there are signs of poor judgement from either his manager or the club’s scouting team, then he will undoubtedly reduce the already dwindling funds for next season.

Newcastle United fans, is Antonio Barreca your most disappointing signing in recent years? Let us know in the comment section below…