[BFC SITE] Pre-Stevenage Press Conference | Darrell Clarke

Fixtures

• Barnsley Vs. Stevenage - Sat, Jan 25 2025, 15:00

Darrell Clarke spoke to the media on Thursday to preview the Reds' upcoming Sky Bet League One fixture against Stevenage at Oakwell.

Recent Performance Assessment


The gaffer shared his thoughts on the team's recent outing:
“Probably the best in-possession we've played in the last four or five games, with the chances created, the entries into the final third and the box. But we were a bit slack in our defensive moments and got punished for it. There were a couple of individual mistakes and some lapses in concentration during key moments, even though we didn’t have to defend much in that game.

“There are a lot of positives in our forward-thinking play, but we need to be more ruthless defensively. It’s important we learn from this and improve in those moments. Generally, we’re not a team that gets peppered with chances – Wrexham in the second half was probably the exception. We’ll review this properly and ensure we tighten things up at the back.”

Player Updates


On the fitness of Davis Keillor-Dunn:
“Obviously, he came off the other day, and we’ll see how he is. He’s doing a bit, but we’ll monitor him closely.”

The coach also praised Neil Farrugia for his Reds debut:
“I thought he looked very sharp when he came on. He gives us a different dynamic on the left-hand side, which is great to have. Georgie [Gent] has been brilliant – a young lad stepping up. Competition for that spot is crucial, and Neil offers a natural left-footed option that we haven’t had this season. Hopefully, he’ll be a real asset for us moving forward.”

January Transfer Window


With the window open, Clarke shed light on the ongoing process:
“We’re always hopeful. It’s similar to last week in terms of progress – moving forward but not quite over the line yet. The January window is always challenging, as it’s a moving market.

“You’ve got to have a list of targets because there are so many variables that can stop your first choice from happening. It’s not easy to manoeuvre in this window, as most good players are already in teams. Patience is key, and we’re working hard to make sure we get the right balance and positional needs covered.”

He also addressed outgoing players:
“No bids at the moment, but there’s some interest in fringe players. We’re looking to shorten the squad, and we’ll see what develops as the window nears its end.

“Marshy [Marsh] is one who needs to get out and play games. He’s been with the club a long time and had one or two chances earlier this season. He’s a great lad, and I wish him all the best.”

Upcoming Fixtures


Looking ahead, the focus remains on the next challenge:
“Stevenage will be tough – they’re a solid, robust defensive team with plenty of clean sheets. Everything went wrong for us on the day last time we faced them, but we’ll need to be at our best to break them down and avoid giving away silly goals.

“It’s a big week for us – Wycombe away on Tuesday and Burton at home on Saturday. Three games in seven days is a challenge we’re ready to embrace. The focus is on winning the next game, whether we’re at home or away.”

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