Ahead of his Barnsley side’s crucial South Yorkshire derby with Rotherham United, Conor Hourihane has said two of his players are giving their all for him.
Barnsley haven’t had the best season this campaign. They are currently 13th, without a win in five, and nervously looking over their shoulders.
Thankfully for the Tykes, they have as many as three games in hand over some of the sides around them.
Despite those games in hand, Hourihane will likely be keen to get all three points against their local rivals at the weekend to help ease any worries and claim local bagging rights.
Two players in particular have been singled out by the Barnsley boss as being crucial for his side this season, despite both being at the back end of their careers. Those players are the experienced duo David McGoldrick and Tom Bradshaw, who have led the line for the Tykes in recent games.
Hourihane Praises David McGoldrick and Tom Bradshaw
Speaking to the Barnsley Chronicle ahead of their clash with Rotherham United, Hourihane was full of praise for his experienced strikers:
“Right now they’re giving me absolutely everything, that’s for sure. And credit to them.
“Tom’s obviously a little bit younger than Didzy.
“We’ve not mentioned the schedule of our fixture list too much recently, even though we all know it.
“But it’s something that obviously I’m aware of in the back of my head.”
The former midfielder went on to discuss what he needs from all players, young and old, in his side between now and the end of the season:
“Didzy is the age that Didzy is, and it’s going to take an effect.
“Same with Tom Bradshaw, and same with a lot of the young lads who have played as much minutes this season of senior football probably than they have ever.
“But we need a big effort from everyone now, regardless if you’re young, old or played a lot of minutes, starting with Saturday.
“And we’ll deal with the tiredness then as the games go on.”
McGoldrick Ageing Like a Fine Wine
38-year-old McGoldrick has shown this season that the fact he’s approaching 40 is no problem for him.
The forward is the Tykes’ top scorer this season with 15 League One goals in 35 games. His performances have received an average rating of 6.85 from Sofascore.
He’s been a constant threat for Barnsley this season, averaging 2.8 shots per game and 0.9 shots on target per game.
Bradshaw Without a Goal in 10
Despite also being praised for his effort by his manager, Bradshaw is without a goal in 10 games, scoring just one goal in 12 since returning to the club on loan.
The 33-year-old has chipped in with two assists, but his goal return will likely not be what he had wished for.
If he can find his goalscoring boots between now and the start of May, he’ll be able to help Barnsley squash any talk of relegation this campaign.
