We’re back in Sky Bet Championship action again this weekend as we welcome Watford to Oakwell, which means there is another jam-packed edition of Grove Street up for grabs.
So, what’s in store for you in this issue?
We have a huge feature length article with JACK WALTON, who discusses handling the pressures that come with being a professional footballer. It’s a deep and intimate piece with our goalkeeper as we spoke after our 2-2 draw with Stoke City.
The 22-year-old also talks about that incredible run-in at the end of last season that saw him thrust into action and become one of the heroes of our great escape, alluding to those magnificent saves against Luton Town and Brentford.
Our second big interview is with another star of lockdown, PATRICK SCHMIDT. Who could possibly forget his contribution as the Reds made that miraculous recovery – his goal against Nottingham Forest will live long in the memory.
Pipo opens up about life in England – the first time he has been away from home – and adjusting to life in a different country. And, of course, he talks about his contributions at the tail end of the 19/20 campaign, plus his ambitions moving forward.
New Head Coach, VALÉRIEN ISMAËL, pens his first programme notes. Unfortunately, due to print deadlines, these were written before Tuesday evening’s victory over Queens Park Rangers, but he outlines his excitement to be in South Yorkshire as he addresses supporters for the first time.
Chief Executive Officer, DANE MURPHY, welcomes the Frenchman to Oakwell in his column, while also discussing key topics in the football world such as Project Big Picture and praises staff at the club for their assistance with the free school meals campaign currently being run by Reds in the Community.
We have an academy update with TOM HARBAN, whose team are flying at the moment with three wins from their opening five games of the Professional Development League campaign.
The U18s Head Coach talks about some of the prospects in his team and the formula that has got our youngsters playing such an exciting and successful brand of football in the opening weeks of the season.
Staying with the academy theme and BRAD BINNS puts his football knowledge to the test in our Ten Questions challenge. It’s not a bad effort from the talented midfielder – pick up your copy of GROVE STREET and see if you can beat his score.
Our local club in the spotlight this time is EASTFIELD ATHLETIC, who have found an alternative way to raise awareness about a local charity. We spoke with their manager, SAM WOGAN, to find out more about the reason behind their vibrant new kit this season and also talk about their fantastic start to the season.
As ever, we feature a local business from the hospitality sector and in focus for your Watford edition of GROVE STREET is none other than OAKWELL SANDWICH. The little eatery at the end of the road is a favourite for supporters, so we nipped out for a chat with ANNE-MARIE BRADLEY to discuss how they are getting on under current coronavirus restrictions.
It wouldn’t be a matchday programme without a nod to our visitors from Vicarage Road, so we assess THE HORNETS’ prospects following their relegation from the Premier League last season.
We also have an update from the LADIES IN RED in a Q&A with BRETT HAWKE, who talks us through their start to the season, while regular contributors NEIL RICHARDSON and LEIGH EDWARDS return with their insightful columns.
That just about covers everything.
Oh, you can also win a pair of signed Jack Walton gloves if you purchase your Watford edition of GROVE STREET.
All of this for just £3! Order your copy here.