Herbie Kane spoke with the press this afternoon as the Reds prepare for Saturday's Sky Bet Championship fixture with Swansea City.
Ahead of the weekend’s clash with the Swans, our 22-year-old midfielder said he sees it as an opportunity for the Reds to make up for the pre-Christmas defeat in South Wales.
Despite having to contend with the treacherous weather conditions at Oakwell that today forced the squad inside for training, Kane still believes the players are looking in good nick for Saturday night.
“We had to train in the indoor centre on the astro because of the weather, but it was alright and I think we’re in good shape.
“It was frustrating down in Swansea before Christmas so Saturday we have the chance to get revenge on Saturday night at Oakwell.
“It’s been nice to start the last few games but I know I need to keep giving reasons as to why I’m in the team, I can’t just expect to play. I must continue to contribute to the team, to do as asked by the gaffer and hope we can keep getting results.”
Herbie has started both fixtures in 2021 so far and reckons last weekend’s victory in the FA Cup against Tranmere Rovers was a good performance in terms of the Reds’ defensive showing.
But he’s only focusing on what is ahead of him, much like his Head Coach.
“Keeping a clean sheet last time out was massive.” Kane explained.
“We’ve been working very hard in training to improve, certainly in terms of set-pieces and so it’s a good sign that we kept it tight in the last game.
“Our focus is only on the next game though.
“We are taking it each game at a time, and this is a strong division so we need to keep at it. I just want to reward the gaffer for giving me an opportunity.”
He registered an assist in the cup clash and says he’s looking to kick on now in terms of goal-involvement.
But his main desire is to keep on working hard, to improve as a player and help push the Reds forward under Valérien Ismaël.
“It’s about helping the team.” Herbie told us.
“To get that assist is good because I just want to help the team. I’m hoping I can start getting a goal soon too.
“I’m learning and developing all the time so I think I’m in a good place. That’s why I came here. I wanted to get game-time, to become a big player at a club, not just a young prospect.
“I’ve never played this kind of football, so it’s been a challenge but I think I’m getting to grips with it and I want to be able to play all sorts of football, to improve as a player.”
