Barnsley Head Coach Lee Johnson met the press ahead of Tuesday’s match against Coventry City and started by reflecting on Saturday’s away win against Gillingham.
“I was delighted to get the win. Of course it was important to get the monkey off the back for the first win and there’s no better time to get it than the first game in charge.
“I was really pleased with the players. Although we didn’t have to change too much after two good results, a slight tweak to the formation and tactical mindset worked and they produced it on the day. We scored a good goal and defended resolutely to send our traveling fans home happy.
When asked about Adam Davies’ recent performances Johnson said, “There was one save in particular on Saturday kept us in the game and I do feel the goalkeeper needs to be that sort of spiritual leader if you like. I’ve only seen him close hand in two games and he’s been excellent. I know he had a very good reputation and I actually tried to sign him when I was at Oldham but lost out to Barnsley.
On the question whether Ross Turnbull would play again this season due to injury he said, “Probably not. He has a back problem that may or may not need to be operated on. We have to make sure we do the right thing Ross.
“Sam Winnall is very close. He is chomping at the bit. I probably could have involved him on Saturday. Had it been a home game we would have involved him. He’s looked sharp in training. We just felt we needed to give him an extra two or three days training for the greater good. I’d rather have a fit, flying Sam Winnall, 100 percent for the last 13 games than maybe 80 percent for the last 14/15 games.
“Dale Jennings is ready to be involved in the squad and Peter Ramage is probably going to be out for other ten to twenty days.
“It would be great to get a home win tomorrow. The fans have been excellent since I have arrived. I have had a lot of well wishes personally and on social media, so I thank everyone for that. Of course I am keen to make a good impression. You don’t get a second chance to make a first impression and I want to endear myself to the public and the people of Barnsley.
Looking ahead to Coventry he said, “The reality is that it’s going to be a very tough game on Tuesday night. At our very best we have a good chance of winning it, but if we drop off our best we have a good chance of losing the game. It’s up to the players and the staff to make sure that we are at it and make sure we come flying out of the blocks and go and achieve what would be a massive three points. Somebody is going to come out of the pack so why not it be us?”
Watch the full interview on Barnsley Player
