[BFC SITE] Donovan Pines | Pre-Lincoln City Press Conference

Donovan Pines says that he is “happy” to have scored on his return to action at Wigan, and that he is looking forward to instilling a winning mentality at Barnsley over the coming season.

Speaking to the press ahead of Saturday’s game against Lincoln City, Pines reflected on his own performance in the Carabao Cup second round penalty shootout victory over Wigan Athletic, in which he scored the equaliser with a ranging header at the back post, stating that he is looking forward to “helping the team” as much as he can.

“It was a blessing to come back and score, and I was happy to get one back. It was also good to see Gaga (Slonina) come up in clutch, so we could help the team win. My priority as a defender is to defend well, but if I can help offensively too, it’s good.”

Donovan also detailed his progress on his return from injury, stating that the road ahead looked positive. “I’m taking things gradually, and the physios are looking after me. I’m going to ease my way back in, it’s a long season, and we’ve got at least 52 games to play. I’m just going to focus on what I’m told to do.”

Pines elaborated on the support he’d received at the club from staff, players and fans alike, talking about how “welcomed” he felt by the Barnsley faithful.

“It’s nice to come to a different environment, and be celebrated. It’s a great community, and I appreciate everybody supporting me, being so far from home.

Donovan then discussed the recent arrival of fellow American, Gabriel Slonina, stating he knows that the goalkeeper will “gel really well” within the Reds setup.

“It’s great to have another American voice in the locker room. I didn’t play against him in the MLS, by the time that fixture came to happen, he’d already went to Chelsea, so it’s cool to play alongside him.”

The Reds defender also talked about the need for a winning mentality at Oakwell this season, stating that he hopes to contribute to this. “We all want to do our jobs the best we can. If we can instil that mentality on and off the field, we’ll achieve something special here.”

Pines singled out the recent return of Barnsley vice-captain, Marc Roberts, to Oakwell, stating that he was looking forward to tapping into the experience of a fellow defender. “I’m hoping to learn under his tutelage, he’s a great leader and it’s great to have him around. It’s nice to have that versatility at the back.”

Donovan then spoke about the individual support he’d received from Barnsley Head Coach since arriving at Oakwell. Darrell’s been really supportive of me, he knows how tough it can be to be away from home, I want to do the right things to help him on the field.”

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Guess that means Big D will be back in the starting line up Great news.

 

For those wondering same as me.

Come up clutch" is an informal expression that means to be helpful or useful, especially in a difficult or important situation. For example, "I missed the bus, which would've made me late for my interview, but a neighbor came in clutch and gave me a ride".
Else I got the gist of the rest lol.
Someone teach him tarn speyk please.

 

Loved what you did there, American spelling of neighbour. Sharp as a Hook.
I take it all back.
The BBS has an American spell check, neighbour becomes neighbor!!!

 

Well spotted lol. Copied and pasted most on it.

 

What would have happened if your neighbour's clutch blew up though?

 

Nice one Donny lad!

 

Reading what DC said would be surprised to see him start against Lincoln