Mike Bähre believes last weekend’s result has shown that Barnsley are capable of beating any team in the Sky Bet Championship.
The Reds made a perfect start to life back in the second tier with a tremendous 1-0 victory over recently relegated Fulham and perhaps could have won by an even greater margin.
“I think Fulham came here to get an easy win and three points and I think we surprised them by the way we played,” said Bähre.
“Before the game, you expected Fulham to play from the back and for us to struggle, but, in the match, it was the opposite – we pressed them and they didn’t know how to defend against us. I think a lot of games will be like this and maybe teams won’t be as confident against us.
“We’ve shown that we can win against any team after beating Fulham and I’m positive and looking forward to the rest of the season.”
Barnsley make the short journey to Hillsborough on Saturday to face local rivals Sheffield Wednesday, looking to build on their impressive start.
The Owls, too, were victorious on the opening weekend as they secured a 3-1 win at Reading – despite having goalkeeper Kieran Westwood dismissed in the second half.
Heading into the clash, Bähre insists that he and the Reds’ squad know the importance of claiming local bragging rights and that they will be giving it their all to return to Oakwell with three points.
“It’s an important match for the fans and we’re just going there to get three points,” continued the midfield maestro. “We represent Barnsley and that’s why we know how important it is for the fans and we’ll work as hard as we can.”
Having arrived in South Yorkshire from his native Germany a year ago, Bähre is well aware of the complexities of settling into new surroundings.
With no less than twelve new signings this summer – including our number ten on a permanent deal – and four arriving from abroad, the 23-year-old says he can use his experience to help his teammates integrate into life at the club.
“I know the situation and how it is to come to a new country, learn a new language and experience a new culture, so I know how they feel right now; that’s why I always try to help new players in our changing room,” insisted Bähre.
“I think that’s important – not just on the pitch – but all around the club as well.”
You can watch Mike’s full press conference on iFollow Barnsley.