Ahead of the trip to Hillsborough, forward Conor Chaplin believes Barnsley have “come on leaps and bounds” since the arrival of new boss Valérien Ismaël.
The Reds have won six of ten games since the Frenchman took charge at the end of October, and Chaplin says the mood in the Barnsley camp ahead of Saturday’s clash is positive.
“Everyone is really excited for the game,” insisted the 23-year-old. "Obviously, it’s a derby, but it’s also just another chance for three points as well.”
He believes the defensive style implemented by Tony Pulis is no different to the tactics of many other teams Barnsley have faced this term, and that the Reds’ attack will be able to overcome the Owls.
"I think what they will do is very similar to what a lot of other teams have tried to do against us, because we are a lot better at scoring goals at the moment,” he continued.
"We’re a lot more dynamic at creating chances and going forward, and I think teams know that.”
Chaplin is unconcerned by any impacts on the squad from a fast turnaround following a physical game against Wycombe Wanderers in midweek, saying: "Every single team in the league faces exactly the same teams as us, so we’re not at a disadvantage.”
He himself knows the importance of flexibility within the squad as this season’s hectic schedule comes thick and fast, and his own role has changed somewhat compared to last term.
However, he is keen to rise to the challenge: "It is different. I would like more opportunities in front of goal, and more goals that come with that as well, so that’s something I’ll be looking to improve.
"I like the way I’m playing, though, and I think I’m creating a lot of chances for my teammates, so that takes away a bit of the disappointment in front of goal.
"Ultimately, as long as we keep winning, then that’s the most important thing at the minute.”
You can watch Conor's press conference on iFollow Barnsley.
