As we get set for the season-opener with Cardiff City, we got the thoughts of our Head Coach.
ON PLAYER AVAILABILITY
“Herbie Kane came back with us this week, he’s feeling okay so he’s an option for us. But for Mads Andersen, we are looking at a few weeks yet. He’s a young guy, he’s a smart guy, a professional and he’ll come back for us soon.
“We have no other issues, but in terms of fitness, a few players are a little behind so we have some decisions to make for Saturday. It’s up to me to find solutions now.”
ON NEW ARRIVALS
“Obbi Oularé is a really good player, he’s very good in the air and gives us a real option. I think we can get the best out of him. Aaron Leya Iseka is very good technically, and can play in a variety of positions so he will offer us great versatility.
“Josh Benson is a player that will give us something different. He’s very good with his quality on the ball, and we will get to know each other better as time develops. He is another very welcome addition to our squad. We lost a guy in Alex Mowatt who had similar abilities and Josh can hopefully contribute in a similar way for us.”
ON RECRUITMENT
“We are still having meetings, we are still in discussions about more potential incomings. It’s a constant thing, we always have to be looking. Maybe one or two, and it’s not difficult to see where we might need to strengthen. But we will only bring in the right players of course.”
ON PLAYER RETENTION
“It was an awesome season last year, the guys did so well and their special performances attract attention, but I’m delighted that we’ve retained these players. But it’s a new season, we need to see more of that this season, and I am confident that we can do well together.
“It’s a process, but we want to develop the players, develop our way to play football. I have real belief in what we are aiming to do.”
ON CARDIFF CITY AND SEASON AHEAD
“We want to win every game, naturally. But the Championship is a tough league. On Saturday, Cardiff is a tough opponent, and we know their qualities and what they are all about. But we have a clear focus, we will go there full of confidence.
“They are a really clear team in terms of their identity. But it’s up to us to start the season well, with an attitude that I expect from my Barnsley team.
“I know Mick McCarthy is from Barnsley, he had a really good career as both a player and a manager but I’m looking forward to taking him on at the weekend. That is why I’m here, to test myself against the best.
“For everyone in football, England is the ‘Mecca’. To be part of this, it’s special and I want to make my own impact.”
