2008-2009 Season Previews

Last updated : 08 August 2008 By Rob Miles (barnsley Boy)

Manager: Gary Johnson

Odds to win: 16-1

2007-2008:

Position: 4th W:20 D: 14 L:12 F:54 A:53 Points: 74

Top Scorer: Darren Byfield (8)

FA Cup: Third Round

League Cup: Second Round

Yellows: 59 Reds: 3

Results against Reds:

2/10/07 Barnsley 3-0 Bristol City. 22/12/07 Bristol City 3-2 Barnsley

2008-2009:

 

Name: Tim Kelly (a.k.a Ciderup)

Club: Bristol City F.C

Level of Interest St holder. Don't miss many away either.

How has pre-season gone for you?

Garbage but it was awful last year. So far we have drawn with Forest Green, drew with a Portuguese 2nd division club and lost to Rushden and Diamonds.

Are you pleased with the signings your club has made?


We have only made 2 so far. Gavin Williams from Ipswich is a decent attacking midfielder if he stays fit and Emad Meteb from Egypt for £1.5 million. He looks the business I have to say. We have been told 3 more are coming in.

What realistically are you aiming for this season?

After last season, I haven't a clue. I will say top 10. I would be happy with that.

Which player has past his sell by date?

Gary Johnson has shipped a lot of senior pros out over the last couple of years. Steve Brooker needs to stay fit this term or he will be gone! We have hardly seen him over the last 2 seasons.

Have you got the right manager in charge?


Undoubtedly! Gary J has rejuvenated our club. We are really lucky to have him.

What advice would you give him?


Stay, stay, stay! The guy can do no wrong IMHO. With Gary in charge and the new Gate on the way. We could really be on the verge of something special.

Who do you see as your key player?


Marvin Elliott. He is our 'spoiler' in midfield but he can also play. We went to pot last term when Marvellous was out injured.

Who would you most like to beat this season?


Plymouth. We don't like losing at our place and Argyle beat us fair and square. We owe them one.

Where will you finish?


I would guess at 10th.

How do you rate Barnsley's chances next season and where do you think they will finish?


Seemed to blow hot and cold last term. Battered us at Oakwell yet were pretty poor at AG. Keep Howard and you should have a decent season. Like us, Barnsley seem to be hoping that certain important players don't get bad knocks.


If you don't have the diversion of a cup run this term I see no reason why you shouldn't be in the top half with us. I would guess at around 12th.