Reds Manager Danny Wilson talked to Barnsley Player as he prepares his side to face Gillingham at Oakwell on Saturday.
Off the back of a win and a draw on the road, the Reds boss is hopeful his side can claim maximum points at home against Peter Taylor’s side.
“We’re up against a team that has been improving since the first game in Gillingham,” said Wilson. “With them, they’re very, very capable of going anywhere in the league and getting a result. We have to be mindful and respectful to them but also try and focus on our strengths.
“Teams will be finding their feet a little bit better and will have more of an understanding of what’s in front of them.”
James Bailey and Keith Treacy have both played through the pain barrier with tight groins, and Wilson has praised the attitude of the midfield duo.
“They came through the game but I’m not too sure we’ll see them both again this Saturday, we’ll have to wait and see,” continued Wilson. “What they’ve given us, more than anything, is a commitment in them wanting to play. We’ve seen it many times with other players and the slightest problem makes them not want to play.
“With these lads, it’s going to take a lot more to stop them from playing. Knowing those two, they’ll try and play on Saturday. We’ll take a look at them and see how they are. But the good thing is, if they’re not fit, we’ve got that cover now.”
Goalkeeper Ross Turnbull is nearing a recovery from a back problem but youngster George Smith is the only definite absentee.
Speaking of Turnbull, Wilson added, “He’s got through it at a great speed. This weekend, he could be up for consideration. I’m hoping he can get through his training schedule over the next few days. If he’s not available to play, we’re hoping he’ll be available off the bench.”
Dale Jennings returns from his three-match suspension after his red card on the opening day of the season at home to Crawley, and the winger provides healthy competition, as Wilson explains, “What we’ve done with Dale, we’ve taken this time he’s had to up his fitness schedule.
“He’ll admit to himself that he’s not as fit as he should be. We’ve taken this opportunity to give him a good blast. Let’s hope that being out of the team, he may have learned a bit of a lesson. What it’s give to the rest of the team is an opportunity for our other lads to replace him and the other lads have done well.
“There’s great competition now with three in particular who can play in those positions with Devante (Cole), Keith (Treacy) and Jenno (Dale Jennings).”
You can watch the full interview with the Reds boss here on Barnsley Player.
