[BFC SITE] Darrell Clarke | Pre-Manchester United Press Conference

Darrell Clarke says that it is important that his Barnsley side move on from Saturday’s defeat at Stevenage, and aim to “cause problems” for Manchester United tomorrow night.

Speaking to the press ahead of the Carabao Cup third round clash at Old Trafford, the Reds’ Head Coach reflected on the 3-0 defeat on Saturday, stating that he viewed the game as a frustrating one.

“One or two decisions on the pitch didn’t go our way. It was frustrating to lose Donovan at half-time, as I wanted a physical back line in the second half. The game plan then had to change when we conceded two in five minutes.”

Clarke also spoke about lessons learned from the loss at Stevenage, stating that the squad had also reflected well, and this would bode well for future games: “It was one of those games where the changes didn’t work, but we’ve made changes previously in the season, and players adapted well to them. All I ask from my teams is we’re honest with each other, we don’t become victims and take ownership of our actions.”

The Barnsley Head Coach also detailed his excitement ahead of the club’s third round clash with Manchester United, stating that the game was one his side would try and enjoy, whilst also stressing the need for professionalism. “We are under no illusions, and know we need to have to be ten out of ten on performances.”

“The fans have done their bit getting behind the boys with the amount of tickets that have been sold, and we want to thank them for that by putting in a performance that does ourselves justice, and does the fans and the town proud.”

Darrell stated that he expected his players to seize the opportunity on Tuesday night, and prove a point, adding: “We’ve got to stand up and be brave, with or without the ball. That’s the standard you need to be on the level of world-class players playing in the Premier League.”

Clarke also spoke about the momentum that the cup run has given his side, stating that he has been impressed with the squad’s performances in cup competitions this season, but also emphasising the importance it holds for getting the squad ready for league games through the season as well.

“We want to win every game, and as someone new to the club, I wanted to start well, and the cup run has given us a platform to do that. We’ve got an important game at Burton too, and I have to make sure that decisions are made with an eye on Saturday too, so that the team is fresh enough to take on all challenges.”

Darrell closed the conference by expressing his personal delight at being able to walk his team out against Manchester United in the Carabao Cup tomorrow night, and stated he wanted to make the evening a special occasion.

“It’s a really proud moment for me as a council estate kid from Mansfield leading out Barnsley at Old Trafford against a team I grew up following, but I want lots of proud moments in my time at Barnsley, and we want to make tomorrow night as magical for the fans as possible.”

Watch the press conference in full below.

Continue reading...