Barnsley full-back Dexter Lembikisa is looking forward to his first return to Rotherham United this weekend, believing he now has greater freedom to express himself in his new role at Oakwell.
The 20-year-old, on loan from Wolverhampton Wanderers, spent the first half of the 2023–24 season at the AESSEAL New York Stadium, battling in a tense relegation fight with the Millers. However, he joined Barnsley on deadline day this season, and Lembikisa now feels more at ease in a system that allows him to showcase his attacking qualities.
“One hundred per cent. The team are in different positions and the football is different,” he said. “Hopefully, I can show my attacking qualities as well and be involved in more attacks and express myself in that manner, while also remembering the defensive side of the game and having an all-round experience here.”
A Fresh Start at Barnsley
Lembikisa made his first appearances for Barnsley as a substitute in matches against Huddersfield Town and Stockport County and is hoping for a more prominent role in the coming weeks.
His time at Rotherham saw him feature 27 times before Wolves opted to send him to Hearts in the Scottish Premiership for the remainder of last season. At Tynecastle, he thrived in a more forward-thinking role, scoring twice in 18 appearances and helping the club secure European football.
“I enjoyed my time in Scotland and had a good time. With the position of the table Hearts were in, I could attack more and have the ball more, really,” he explained. “It was a push to get into the Europa League, which we did, and that was good as well.”
Barnsley and Rotherham Struggling for Form
Barnsley enter the South Yorkshire derby in poor form, winless in their last six matches and trailing the play-off places by ten points. However, they will take confidence from their 2-0 victory over Rotherham in the reverse fixture at Oakwell in November.
The Millers, five points behind Barnsley in the League One table, are also struggling, having failed to win any of their last four league outings.
Writer’s View
Lembikisa’s return to Rotherham will add an extra layer of intrigue to what is always a fiercely contested fixture. His comments suggest he is relishing the freedom he has been given at Barnsley, which could prove crucial in a game where attacking intent will be key. With both sides struggling for form, this derby clash offers the perfect opportunity for one of them to reignite their season.
