PREM BID IS RIGHT ON NOW MATCH FACTS
BARNSLEY fans who witnessed a miracle on the final day of last season, with their side defying the odds to stay in the Championship, could be about to witness another.
This time their focus is on the opposite end of the table with
Valerien Ismael’s side on a charge.
And after yesterday’s 1-0 win against Birmingham they are eyeing the Premier League.
Under American ownership, which includes baseball tycoon Billy Beane (below), the club have made some interesting managerial choices.
But Ismael, who succeeded last season’s hero Gerhard Struber as boss, could prove to be the most enlightened appointment.
Now after an amazing upturn in fortunes there is talk of his side emulating Danny Wilson’s class of 1997-98, who enjoyed one season of Premier League football.
Ismael has introduced a hard pressing game.
“Without intensity we’ve no chance,” he admits.
“We don’t have Premier League quality but we can dominate with our intensity. I don’t think our games are boring.”
Barnsley midfielder Dominik Frieser, who also played under Ismael at Austrian side LASK, is not surprised at how quickly the side have adapted to his tactics.
“I know the gaffer from last year and know his style of football and his mindset,” he saiwd.
“He is so good for our group and the young players.
“His mentality is unbelievable and you feel it. He can translate it to the players on the pitch.
“The important thing is that everyone likes the style of football and likes to press.”
Defender Toby Sibbick added: “If we just focus on ourselves who knows what can happen?
“When we step out onto the pitch the manager gives the confidence and belief that we can beat anyone.”
The only disappointment for Ismael is that Barnsley’s resurgence has not been witnessed first hand by the fans.
But he has made the right noises off the pitch, donating £200 to a local brass band who needed to repair two tubas and handing over more money to a foodbank.
He said: “It’s been a tough time for everybody.
“I am grateful for this opportunity and while I am here I will give everything I can. I’m looking forward to meeting the fans, hopefully also in pubs and restaurants.”
■■Liverpool have lost just one of their 23 top-flight home games against Fulham (W16 D6), a defeat in May 2012 under then-boss Kenny Dalglish (0-1). ■■Fulham are unbeaten in their last seven Premier