Who Are Yer?: Barnsley

It's back! The new Championship season is upon us, and so is 'Who Are Yer?', as we have a chat with Vital Barnsley editor Andy ahead of the big clash this weekend...

1. What are your expectations for the new season?

I think Barnsley should fair better than in the previous 3 seasons back in the Championship, we have a leaner, fitter and more home grown squad which has looked very slick in pre-season but of course only time will tell.

2. What players have come in?

So far Davey's only brought in cover for Luke Steele in Davd Preece and Onome Sodje from York City. Preece will already know he's a bench warmer but I reckon Onome will be hoping to get on at some point to face his relative on Saturday.

3. And players you've let go?

We let Muller go to Germany for a profit and released Dennis Souza, Marciano Van Homoet, Diego Leon and Kyle Letheren. Souza was a decent player and he may be missed should we not find cover for our two main centre backs.

4. What are your thoughts on your manager, Simon Davey?

I think Davey has not been given the patience and respect he deserves by the fans. Reading Dave Bassett's comments in an article today I have to agree that the majority at Barnsley do seem to regard the club as a sleeping giant and expect us to be challenging for the Premier League year in year out. In actual fact Davey has done a great job in keeping us in the division and I'd like to see him at least see out his contract.

5. Key players?

Anderson De Silva and Hugo Colace really make the team tick from the midfield, they both have the ability to put a foot on the ball and slow the pace down or pick out a killer pass. Equally, Jamal Campbell-Ryce is a fans favourite for the simple reason that every time he gets the ball, we look like creating something.

6. Any weak links?

The weakest link has to be the attack. We've not had a 20 goal a season striker, or any other position for that matter, for as long as I've been watching Barnsley. Bruce Dyer came closest I think with 17. Hopefully we'll bring someone in who can find the net on a regular basis.

7. What's your most memorable Owls v Barnsley game?

My most memorable Owls v Barnsley game is probably the 3-0 win at Oakwell when Steve Parkin was in charge. The Sky cameras were watching as Mike Sheron got a couple and Chris Morgan scored a close range header.

8. Where do you think the Owls will end up this season?

I reckon the Owls will finish in the bottom half of the table this season. Between 12th and 16th. I don't think they've got what it takes to make it to the play-offs but there are plenty of worse teams in our league.

9. Finally, a score prediction?

I reckon, 2-2 on Saturday. Wednesday always raise their game when they play us, even if they're having a bad season, whereas we (until last season) usually forget how to play football when we play Wednesday, but with the first day nerves, I think there will be goals in both sides.

Click here to join in the debate on the club forum.