Why there are reasons to be cheerful at Barnsley

Despite a turbulent summer Barnsley manager Neill Collins has the Reds in good shape heading into the New Year. 

Sitting in 7th, one point off the play offs with games in hand on all but two sides above them, Barnsley are heading into 2024 in good form and good positioning. 

On a seven game unbeaten run in the league with 42 points from 23 games and going toe to toe away at Peterborough, a side who look strong and well placed for an automatic promotion push, Collins must be pleased at where his side currently sit. 

With three upcoming home games against beatable opposition in Wigan, Bristol Rovers and Carlisle, Barnsley have a great chance to cement themselves in the mix for the top 6. 

With a good festive period so far behind them with victories over Stevenage and Port Vale as well as a good point at Peterborough, a New Year’s Day victory over Wigan at Oakwell would put the polish on a very good period for Barnsley.

Since Luca Connell returned to the side, the balance in midfield has returned. This has coincided with Herbie Kane`s improving form. Playing too deep in Connell`s absence did not suit Kane who now pushed further forward influences games much more. With six goals this season, five in last nine games and more impressively three goals and three assists in last five games alone, Kane is starting to show what he can do in this side. 

The Reds have a goal difference of plus 18 which is only matched by the top four sides in the division. 

There is still room for improvement. A physical centre half is a must in the January transfer window to shore up a back three that can leak soft goals. 

As we end 2023, many supporters of the likes of Blackpool, Reading and Charlton will all be envious of Barnsley`s position. To get over the disappointment of losing the Play Off final and in such circumstances, the huge turnover of players in the summer and a new management team supporters should be pleased with how the first half of the season has gone for Collins`s side.