Paul Heckingbottom addressed the local media in his first press conference of pre-season today at Oakwell.
The Reds Head Coach reflected on the Club’s achievements from last season before explaining how his side would adapt to life in the Championship.
Reflecting on the side’s superb promotion winning campaign, Heckingbottom spoke of how the players achieved that.
“I was really pleased with all the games we had and the best thing about the player’s performances from my perspective was their ability to perform in a way which won the game.” He explained. “So whether that meant we were defending deep to invite the counter attacks or it was a real high press to win the ball in the opposition half or it was us having lots of the ball and creating chances, that is what we work on. We worked on all those things, because whatever is needed on a Saturday we are able to do it.
“From my perspective that was the most pleasing thing. I think we were an attacking force because the majority of the time we imposed ourselves on the opposition really, really well.”
Looking forward to life in the Championship, the Reds Gaffer wanted to make the opposition aware that whatever problems they may pose, there will be a plan.
“If we can coach, train and get the players to understand their roles as well as they possibly can we are equipped for any type of game.” Heckingbottom stated. “If we’re away at St James’ Park we can dig in and win the game 1-0. We might play Norwich here at Oakwell and decide we want to press really high up the pitch, press the life out of them and win 3-1. We are capable of doing that and that’s down to the work they’ve done out there.
“It’s up to us to recognise what’s needed and get the players to do it to give us the best chance of winning.”
The full 19 minute press conference with Paul Heckingbottom is now available to watch on Barnsley Player HD. To watch this and more exclusive content from Oakwell, simply sign up or login to Barnsley Player HD by clicking here!
