Adelaide United’s belief remains strong, and for Jay Barnett, this moment represents more than a setback. It represents opportunity.
“It’s obviously a big loss with Goody,” Barnett said. “But it’s also an opportunity for other boys to step up and show what they can do. That’s football – when one player’s out, someone else has to rise.”
With captain Craig Goodwin sidelined, Barnett says the squad is united in its response – determined to honour their leader’s standards while continuing to chase the goals set at the start of the season.
“Goody’s obviously massive for us,” he continued. “His quality on the field speaks for itself, but his leadership off the pitch – setting standards at training, guiding the young boys – that’s huge.”
There is no overstating the influence Goodwin has within the group. For a squad built around youth and development, his experience and calm authority provide a foundation. But Barnett believes that foundation remains strong, even if the captain isn’t on the pitch.
“We’ve got other senior boys in the leadership group who’ll step up,” he said. “And it’s also on the younger boys now as well. We’re at a stage of the season where we need to start putting wins together. Whether you’re young or old, everyone has to meet the standards.”
For Barnett, who has grown into a key figure in the squad, leadership is something shared.
“As soon as you establish yourself as a first-team player at this club, you’re expected to lead in some way,” he said. “I’ve got enough experience under my belt now to know what’s required. Hopefully I can help guide some of the younger boys and do my role.”
Importantly for supporters, Goodwin’s influence hasn’t disappeared – it has simply shifted.
“He’s still around, still leading,” Barnett said. “His voice and his standards don’t just stop. He’s a big personality in the group and he’ll keep helping the boys off the field.”
Barnett also believes recent performances show the Reds are closer than results might suggest.
“It’s been fine margins,” he said. “On another day, we probably win those games or at least get something out of them. We’re not far away.”
For a young squad that has already shown resilience this season, this period is about collective responsibility.
“We’ve got a big group, and boys have done really well off the bench,” Barnett said. “Whoever comes in will do their job. That’s the mindset.”
The message is clear: the Reds respect what Craig Goodwin brings, and they will miss him on the field – but belief in the squad’s direction remains strong.
“We still believe in what we’re building,” Barnett said. “And we’re ready to step up.” And that starts with Sydney FC away on Saturday.
