Barnsley asst boss is proud of his internationals

Barnsley assistant head coach Andreas Winkler is confident the club have the squad depth to cope with international call-ups.
Barnsley FC Training: Christopher Stern, Andreas Winkler and Daniel StendelBarnsley FC Training: Christopher Stern, Andreas Winkler and Daniel Stendel
Barnsley FC Training: Christopher Stern, Andreas Winkler and Daniel Stendel

Goalkeeper Adam Davies and midfielder Kenny Dougall have both been rewarded for their impressive starts to the season with selections for Wales and Australia respectively.

Ryan Giggs' side have UEFA Nations League matches against Republic of Ireland and Denmark next week while the Australians are heading toTurkey for a training camp, meaning Davies and Dougall will miss the Reds' Checkatrade Trophy trip to Oldham and the League One visit ofWalsall.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

But Winkler believes the Tykes, who are still looking to add another new face to their squad before today's 5pm loan deadline, have plenty of other options.

The German said: 'I am proud for the guys. We have a little problem, but it's just a little problem.

'We have a strong squad and it is a good chance for another player to show he is confident and strong.

'The players waiting behind them can show the gaffer, '˜Here I am'. That is how it works in a professional football team.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

'As a coach you do not think about the players who are not there, you think about the players who will play. It is not a problem. They will be ready for the challenge.'

Barnsley welcome ninth-placed Gillingham to Oakwell on Saturday aiming to continue their unbeaten start to the season in the league.

Daniel Stendel's side will be favourites to win but, despite starting their home campaign with a 4-0 hammering of Oxford on the opening day, they were then held to a goalless draw by AFC Wimbledon.

Yet Winkler refuses to believe Barnsley are overawed when playing in front of their own fans.  

'I don't think we feel those expectations,' he added.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

'The squad is very happy to play here at Oakwell and show how they can perform in the stadium and in front of the supporters.

'I don't think they think about expectation, they just want to show how they can put the style back from the first minute to the 90th minute. I am quite confident for that.'