Barnsley: Andy Yiadom heaps praise on fellow defenders

Only the injured Aidy White had Championship experience prior to the Reds’ rise to the second tier of English football.

But despite the lack on experience at this level, Yiadom and co have performed admirably at the back, notching up five clean sheets so far this term - with the latest coming on Saturday thanks to a resolute performance at Burton.

“Second half defensively we did well and dug deep,” said Yiadom.

“The second half goes to show how hard we’re working. Especially the back four together, clearances and stopping crosses.

“We dug deep, they were on top of us in the second half but we stuck together and Adam Davies was excellent and made a couple of key saves.

“Our performances go to show how hard we’re working at the training ground with our positioning etc.

“We’re all working really hard to keep improving.”

Yiadom is relishing his chance to perform at this level and is enjoying his time on the field for the Oakwell club.

The right-back has been filling in on the left side of defence recently but he has his eyes firmly fixed on improving his game, no matter where he is selected.

He added: “I’m really enjoying playing week in week out in the Championship and I’m focused on improving - so we can keep getting results.

“It is a big step up but we’re here now so we just have to keep putting in performances and getting points along the way.

“When I came here I didn’t except to be playing every week.

“With me I just get on with it. I don’t care where I play and I just focus on improving and getting better in whatever position in each game and on the training ground.”

The Reds now have the international break to reflect on their recent return to form.

Yiadom admits the break is well deserved - but there is no rest for the full-back, who has been selected in Ghana’s 23-man squad for their World Cup qualifier against Egypt.

Although, it is touch and go as to whether the 24-year-old will be able to travel due to passport issues.

“It’s a deserved break. We’ve got some time now to put our feet up,” said Yiadom.

“But it’s only a week and we’ll be straight back into the thick of things.

“I’m trying to get my passport sorted and if it is then I’ll be jetting off.

“It’s a big honour and it goes to show how hard I’m working and how hard the team is working because without them I wouldn’t be where I am.

“No disrespect to League Two but I don’t think I’d have the same opportunity to represent Ghana without the step up to the Championship.”