[BFC SITE] Maël de Gevigney | Pre-Northampton Town Press Conference

Mael de Gevigney stated that it was a great feeling to make his 50th appearance for Barnsley under his belt against Lincoln City and that he is looking forward to contributing to the Reds this season.

Speaking to the press ahead of Saturday’s home clash in League One against Northampton Town, Mael reflected on last Saturday’s result against Lincoln City, stating that the first league win of the season had taught Darrell Clarke’s men a lot of lessons.

“We know the performance wasn’t the best that we can produce, but that first win is important for us, against a side who did well last season. We need to look at how we can be better in the game, and how we can better manage games, but it is always a relief to get the first points on the board.”

De Gevigney also spoke about the impact that Darrell Clarke and his coaching staff had already had on him and the rest of the first-team players in the opening weeks of the season.

“The staff and coach both work really well with the players. Darrell wants to make me feel confident with and without the ball, and for me to help build an atmosphere so we can be better on the pitch."

Maël also detailed how he felt the competition at centre-back this season was a challenge he relished.

“It’s important that we have centre-backs, and it’s better to have competition than not. We’re all working together, trying to push each other to be better at what we do.”

The French centre-back added that he felt that Marc Roberts, who returned to Oakwell this summer for his second spell with the Reds, had already been a positive influence on him.

“He is helping me a lot. He’s really helped with game management for me personally, and it’s good to have him with us around the club.”

Maël made his 50th appearance for the Reds against Lincoln last Saturday, having only signed for the Reds last summer from French side Nimes. De Gevigney reflected on this achievement, and his time at the Reds, stating he had enjoyed a really positive year in the Barnsley first-team setup.

“I only found out it was my 50th appearance after the game, it’s a great feeling, and it really shows the difference in schedule from France. Being in England has been a massive change, both footballing-wise and personally, but it has been a great move and I’ve learned lots about myself.”

When asked about what he thought had improved in his overall game since his arrival at Oakwell, Maël looked back on his time at the Club so far.

“I feel I’ve really progressed during the season, I’ve become more adaptable, and had to play in new roles last season and this, as part of a three. I’ve also become stronger in duels in that time. I know where I have to improve in terms of being calmer on the ball in transitional play, but I know that I am in a position to do that."

Looking ahead to Saturday’s game against Northampton Town, Maël said he was confident that the Reds could get their first home win of the season under their belt.

“It’s been a long time since we won at home, and the fans deserve performances from us at home. The last 60 minutes against Mansfield were good, and we’re in a good place to get better at home – hopefully that will begin with a win on Saturday.”

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