Barnsley: Kevin has Long run of games in his sights

The Reds have agreed a deal with Championship side Burnley to keep Long at the club for another month.

The 25-year-old missed three matches through suspension after being dismissed against Peterborough, but returned to the starting line-up at the weekend in a 2-0 defeat to Wigan.

And Long is ready to get a run of games under his belt and show the Reds fans what he can do.

“The suspension set me back a little bit being out for three weeks,” admitted the former Cork City man.

“Coming into the Wigan game I don’t think I was at my best. Hopefully that’s out of the way now and I can show the fans what I’m all about in the next few games.

“The whole idea of coming out on loan was to play games and in my second game I got sent off so it wasn’t the best of starts.

“I just want to get a run of five or six games and hopefully my performances will step up from that as well.”

Reds boss Lee Johnson is pleased to have secured the big centre-half’s services as his side continue to try and turn their tough season around.

“He’s a big lad, quick and decent on the ball and he’s enjoying being here,” he said. “I’m delighted to keep him for another month.

“He brings experience and he’s a calming figure around the place and on the pitch.”

Meanwhile, fellow loanee Ivan Toney has been recalled by Newcastle United with the Premier League side short on attacking options due to injuries.

The 19-year-old striker scored twice in his eight-game spell at Oakwell, and Johnson is disappointed to see him return to the north east.

He added: “It’s unfortunate but it’s part of the rules and regulations. I’ve been pleased with him and obviously they have as well to have recalled him.

“It’s an opportunity for someone else to come in and do well.”