It was an on the record statement by a club spokesman. I don't think they would go around making stuff like that up, so it should be trusted.
I agree Barnes wasn't vital so am puzzled why you would think it worth mentioning him, the problem has generally been Oscar leaving strikers on the...
But Barnes didnt become "unavailable" - he was sold! If he was that vital why didnt Oscar put his foot down? The board have gone record saying the budget is bigger this season, presumably they mean wages. Yes we havent spent big fees but the fact is we had a striking pair available yesterday...