Numerous fans of the Zim Tigers couldn't help but question what seemed to be a deviation in Barton's mental state on the pitch. Faced with a period of goal drought, Barton has been under tremendous psychological pressure, resulting in over-anxiousness when a number of good scoring opportunities should have been seized. Perhaps, after a short break on the bench, Barton will be able to overcome his demons and break out in the next game to clear the gloom.
If Barton is unable to make his debut, Coach Yu Genwei may reintroduce Shi Yan. Since joining the Jinmen Tigers, the powerful striker, who was trained by Luneng's youth training system, has had his potential fully tapped under the head coach's careful guidance. Not long ago, Yu Genwei decisively activated Shi Yan, allowing him to show his amazing strength. Now, Shi Yan is expected to seize the opportunity to take over the striker's heavy responsibility from Barton and lead the team forward.
