Hill: 'The Truth is Out There'

PUBLISHED

15:57 6th July 2012

Hill ahead of Spain trip

The Reds head out to their pre-season training camp in Spain next week, and Reds manager Keith Hill caught up with barnsleyfc.co.uk to give us the latest before the squad departs.

“I’m looking forward to our pre-season preparation to Spain and the lads are in great shape,” Hill said. “Next week is all about fitness with the ball and conditioning with the ball - as a team and as individuals.

It’s very important to monitor the replenishments and hydrations levels of the players as it will be red hot. But we have a strict schedule of when we will train.

“I’m happy with the squad size we’re taking and I’m happy with the core of the squad,” he added.

“I’m really pleased with the existing keeper of Luke Steele and optimistic that these three now are the future of the football club. We’ve got to tap into Ben’s (Alnwick) potential. He’s still young in goalkeeping years. He will be very competitive and fight for his opportunity. When he’s not playing I want him to be mad that he’s not playing but to also remain focussed.”

As well as Ben Alnwick, young goalkeeper Lukas Lidakevicius penned a deal at Oakwell which delighted the Barnsley Manager.

“He’s a very good young goalkeeper and again we’re really glad we’ve signed him,” he continued. “He’s a professional - very dedicated and he’s got a bright future as long as he’s willing to learn. Goalkeepers develop a lot later stage than outfield players, as we know.”

As regards to potential transfers, Hill quipped, “The truth is out there, but not on message boards.”