A determined Adam Hammill spoke to the press today ahead of Saturday’s Sky Bet Championship fixture against Derby County at Oakwell.
The Reds winger gave his thoughts on the two matches so far, before giving a message to the rest of the squad.
He said, “We’re disappointed not to get a victory as of yet but there has been positives, we’ve been creating chances, we’d be worried if we weren’t. If I’m honest, most of the goals we’ve conceded have been errors but that’s nothing we can’t rectify on the training ground.
“We’ve gone out there again, worked hard, listened to Tommy and Hecky like we always do and it’s onwards and upwards for us ahead of the weekend.
“We need to rectify and cut out the silly errors. We’re all behind each other in that dressing room, we’re a strong bunch of lads and we all fight for each other, we all get on well on and off the pitch, it’s a never say die attitude.”
Hammill had a message to the fans, who he described as ‘magnificent’ so far.
“The fans have been magnificent, especially at Ipswich away. The amount they brought and the noise they made was excellent. We’re just asking that for each and every game that they can get behind the lads. I know it’s an old cliché but they really can make the twelfth man, they’ve done it countless times last season and it will make a massive difference this year.”
After the Reds have stepped up a league to Championship football, Hammill is one of very few players to feature in this league before and he’s relishing being back in a division he has unfinished business in.
He said, “As a professional footballer you should always look to improve. I’m improving as a player and I think I’ve improved as a person a lot, which has helped with my young family at home. I’ve got points to prove to myself, I’ve let myself down in the past and been disappointed with what I’ve done in the Championship so it’s for me to prove people wrong. I’ve got no doubt in my own abilities and I’m convinced I will do that.”
Going forward, it’s not just Hammill who feels he can prove himself in this league, he has full faith his teammates will do the same.
Hammill explained, “This is a team that can really build on something, it’s a young and exciting squad and it’s going to be an exciting season for us. If we can get a foothold on the division and kick on up the league it’s one that we can obviously enjoy.
“It’s going to be vital the experience. I’m telling the lads not to panic and take each and every game as it comes, let’s set ourselves small targets. In the next two home games let’s get as many points as possible, as soon as they’re on the board it’s a big occasion and a bigger crowd, which becomes easier to play in.
“We know it’s time to step-up now and prove you’re a Championship player. The lads are looking forward to each and every game to prove themselves as a player, and there’s no better place to do that than here on Saturday. They’ve earnt the right to play in the league now they’re going to prove they are worthy of it. It’s a challenge we’re all relishing.”
Finally, with the Reds having two home games in quick succession, Adam announced he’s expecting some big news off the pitch on the day of the QPR game!
Adam broke the news, saying “My little boy is due on Wednesday! My old man will be in the press box so any signs he’ll whistle to me, I’m just hoping he can wait an extra hour!! I want to play each and every game, I want to be there at the birth of my son and I’m sure he will hold out till Thursday.”
Watch Adam Hammill's full 15 minute press conference in full over on Barnsley Player HD.
Get your tickets for Saturday's big game against Derby County online by clicking here. Alternatively telephone 01226 211 183 or buy tickets from the Reds Superstore / BFC Box Office.
