Leon Barnett

Leon Peter Barnett (born 30 November 1985 in Luton, England) is a professional football (soccer)er with West Bromwich Albion F.C. in English Premier League. Although primarily a Defender (football) Centre back, he has also played at Defender (football) Full back, Defender (football) Full back, Midfielder and striker.

Career

In Barnett's first game, at the age of 13, he played on the right-wing for local side Bushmead Wanderers. He later played as a striker and central midfielder for the team, before moving to his now-established position of centre back.

Luton Town

Barnett started his football career at Luton Town's Youth Academy. After signing a professional contract he couldn't force himself in the senior squad, so went on loan to non-league team Aylesbury United F.C., after which he returned to a place in the Luton first team.

Although he took time to adapt to the Football League Championship at times during the 2005-06 in English football, his performances improved during the 2006-07 in English football season, including scoring his first career goal at home to Leicester City F.C. on the opening day of the season. He won Luton's official Player-of-the-Year Award for 2006–07.

West Bromwich Albion

He completed a move to Championship team West Bromwich Albion F.C. for an initial £2.5m fee on 26 July, 2007. His transfer fee could rise by a further £250,000 depending on appearances, plus another £250,000 should West Brom gain promotion to the Premier League. He signed a four-year contract, keeping him at the club until 2011. Barnett made his Albion debut in a 2–1 defeat away at Burnley F.C. on the opening day of the 2007-08 in English football season. He scored his first goal for the club in a 3–2 victory away at Scunthorpe United F.C. on 22 September, 2007. Barnett's performance in Albion's 2–1 away win against Leicester City F.C. on 8 December 2007 earned him a place in the Championship Team of the Week.

Trivia

In 2007 Barnett's aunt Beverley Trotman appeared in the final of The X Factor (UK).