The 33-year-old signed from Burnley this summer and had already forged a strong partnership before the American damaged ligaments in the 4-0 win over Huddersfield Town.
Sargent isn’t expected back in action until December at the earliest, and Barnes is aware of the impact that could have on the Canaries.
“I was devastated for him, and for us as a team,” the City number 10 said. “He doesn’t realise, I say it to him every day how good he is. I was so shocked, I knew he was very good but I didn’t realise he was at that level.
“We just gelled so quickly and had this fluidity of movement, working so well together, with Adam (Idah) coming in as well and doing well with us.
“The three of us had a real good connection straight away, the performances were showing from the start and defences couldn’t live with us.
“I’m devastated, he’ll be a massive miss for us. I hope to see him back on the pitch as soon as possible.”
Nottingham Forest striker Hwang Ui-Jo was signed on loan on deadline day to bolster City’s attacking department, and Barnes is hoping the South Korean international can bond quickly with his team-mates at Carrow Road.
That hasn’t been a problem for Barnes, who already feels at home in NR1.
“We’ve got Hwang in as well now, he’s got to gel with everyone,” Barnes continued, speaking to the club’s official matchday programme. “It’s an easy place to do that, the group of guys that we have here is incredible. Everyone will make sure he feels welcome and special.
“I’m loving every second of it. It’s like I’ve been here for a long, long time. It’s like this has been my home for a lot longer.
“Everyone has taken to me, so it’s on me now to put performances in every time I get on that pitch and give something back for the staff who have shown faith in me here, everyone behind the scenes.”
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