 Born in Bolton, Lancashire, Barnes began his career as a junior with Blackpool, turning professional in May 1954.As the understudy to Stanley Matthews, his opportunities were understandably limited, and in June 1959, after only 9 league appearances he moved to Rochdale for a fee of £1,000.He quickly became a regular in the Spotland side, playing in 91 league games in 2 seasons, and scoring 7 goals.