Career
He was forced to retire from the professional game at just 22 due to a persistent back injury. Born in Reading, Barkus began his career in the Youth Training Scheme at his hometown club After progressing through the youth teams, he made his first team debut in March 1992 age 17 against Chester City and was awarded man-of-the match for his performance.
Although he had not played for the Reading first team since the 1992-1993 season, and with his back problems to continue to hamper him despite surgery, Barkus joined Fulham for £20,000 in 1995.
He made 16 appearances during the 1995-1996 season, scoring twice, but did not feature again and in 1997 was forced to retire as a professional due to his back problems. He moved into non-league football and then coaching.
As of the 2013-2014 season he is a youth coach with East Berkshire Football League side Bracknell Cavaliers.
