Barnsley have decided against hiring an emergency loan keeper this weekend, meaning goalkeeper Kieren Flavell is set to make his full professional debut for the Tykes.
With first-choice goalkeepers Jackson Smith and Joe Gauci both sidelined due to injury, the Reds had explored options for bringing in reinforcements earlier in the week.
However, interim boss Conor Hourihane has chosen to put his faith in 21-year-old Flavell, who impressed after coming on during last weekend’s match against Mansfield.
‘He Has My Full Backing’ – Hourihane on Flavell
Flavell, a product of Barnsley’s academy, was originally fifth or sixth choice at the start of the season but now finds himself in the spotlight. His performance off the bench has earned him the trust of both the coaching staff and the fanbase.
“He’s come up through the academy. I really like him as a ‘keeper and as a lad. He has my full backing. Everyone needs an opportunity,” said Hourihane.
“The club has a history of backing youth players. I am a big believer in giving people opportunities. It’s been a strange situation all season with goalkeepers.”
With Flavell stepping up to the starting role, 20-year-old Adam Hayton is expected to provide cover from the bench.
Injury Concerns Mount for Barnsley
Smith, who suffered a hamstring injury, is expected to be out for the foreseeable future, while Gauci is still undergoing rehabilitation at Aston Villa and is at least a couple of weeks away from returning.
Hourihane provided an update on their conditions: “Jacko is struggling a little bit. He probably won’t be available for the foreseeable. Joe is a couple of weeks away yet and still doing his rehab at Villa. They won’t be up for selection for a couple of weeks.”
In addition to their goalkeeping dilemma, Barnsley will also be without Marc Roberts, who is sidelined with concussion. His absence is likely to see Donovan Pines return to the starting lineup. Meanwhile, young forward Fabio Jalo is back in contention.
Writer’s View
Hourihane’s decision to place his trust in Flavell rather than seeking a short-term fix is a bold but commendable move. Barnsley’s tradition of giving young players opportunities has paid off in the past, and this weekend presents Flavell with the perfect stage to prove himself.
While the Reds’ injury problems are far from ideal, the faith shown in their academy graduate could pay dividends in the long run.
