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Interviews

Aidy White: "I hope the Reds stay up!"

20 April 2018

Interviews

Aidy White: "I hope the Reds stay up!"

20 April 2018

We caught up with the former Reds full back ahead of this weekend's Yorkshire derby against another of his old clubs, Leeds United.

Despite a year spent on the sidelines thanks to a troublesome hip injury, Irish international left back Aidy White has kept in touch with the fortunes of his former sides. 

With just four games remaining of the Sky Bet Championship season, Barnsley have their fate in their own hands and White believes that extra game on their relegation rivals could be pivotal.

"It's in their own hands," he told us, exclusively.

"That game in hand at Forest is probably the key. Of course, having that extra game doesn't necessarily mean anything unless they win it, but it could be a big factor in who stays up or not. 

"I've seen enough of Barnsley this year to say they have the quality to get out of bother. But the wins need to come sooner rather than later."

Otley born White came through the youth system at Elland Road and went on to make over a hundred appearances for his boyhood club. 

Following that was a short spell at another Yorkshire club in Rotherham United, before teaming up with the Reds in November of 2015, initially on loan before signing a permanent deal in August of 2016.

Saturday's big clash is obviously a tricky one then for Aidy to call..

"I'm a Leeds lad so I have to sit on the fence regards the game on Saturday," he told us, smiling. "But obviously I hope the Reds stay up. It's a great club and I had such a great time here, made some long-lasting memories.

"It won't be easy on Saturday for either side. Leeds have been in poor form themselves and they'll need the victory to try and end the season on a positive note. Derby games are always a battle anyway so form becomes irrelevant.

"Adding 'Hecky' into the mix too, it sets it up for a great occasion. Like I say, Leeds is my club so I'd prefer the Reds to get a point there and then win the rest!"

The defender was a key part of the League One promotion side of two years ago, and he still visits Oakwell regularly, meeting up with Head Physiotherapist, Craig Sedgwick for treatment during his rehabilitation process. 

Aidy has nothing but praise for 'Sedgy'. 

"I can't thank him enough really. The club have been great with me, helping me out with my rehab and giving me access to all the facilities. 

"I picked up the injury as a Barnsley player, but that doesn't always mean a club will look after you if you've left. But Barnsley and Sedgy in particular have been spot on with me, even with all the changes over the last year and when I get back playing I will have much to thank the club for."

The 26-year-old believes he's well-set to recover and has a number of options in terms of clubs, but for now he's cheering on the Reds in their fight to remain a Championship club!

"I'm starting back running now, I'm probably a few weeks away, at last, from getting back fit. It's been a long time out and it's not easy, but I have been speaking to a few interested parties and hopefully I'll have myself fixed up and be raring to get back out there next season.

"But for now I wish everyone at Barnsley the best of luck in this next couple of weeks. I know how hard we all worked to get out of League One so they won't want to go back there so soon. 

"It's down to business starting Saturday, lots will happen this next fortnight, let's hope the Reds get themselves safe." 


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