[1] However, due to a lack of opportunities in the Chesterfield first team, Barnes' loan contract was terminated prematurely and he returned to Manchester United after just three appearances for the Derbyshire club.
On 27 February 2008, Barnes went on a week-long trial at Inverness Caledonian Thistle, with a view to securing a permanent contract.
[4] On 27 June 2008, the BBC's speculation over Barnes' future was confirmed, when Manchester United announced that he would be one of seven young players not to have their contracts renewed at the end of the season.
In July 2008, Barnes went on trial with Bristol City, and featured in their first pre-season friendly against Forest Green Rovers.
Six years later, Barnes decided to leave Fylde directly after the play-off semi-final and informed the club on 8 June 2015 when the manager contacted him to negotiate terms for the 2015–16 season.