GABRIEL Slonina is hoping to build on a perfect start to his Barnsley career this week.

The 20-year-old’s season-long loan from Chelsea was announced minutes before Friday’s defeat to Mansfield which he watched before playing in the EFL Cup win at Wigan on Tuesday – saving two penalties in the shoot-out.

The one-cap US international joined Chelsea for $10million from Chicago Fire in 2022 and spent last season on loan at Eupen, playing 33 games as they were relegated from the Belgian top flight.

Slonina told the Chronicle: “The move came around quite quickly. Once I heard they were fighting for promotion last season, it was a no-brainer.

“It’s been fantastic so far. I am still waiting to play my first game at home.

“The Oakwell stadium is beautiful and I am really excited to play there in front of the home fans.”

Slonina has joined fellow American Donovan Pines at Barnsley.

“When I first got to the club it was a great relief to have him there.

“Someone who has a similar accent to mine. He’s a great guy, always asking if I need anything.”

Slonina is expecting League One to be a different style of football to what he has been used to.

“I know that it’s difficult.

“It’s a lot of high balls and crosses.

“It’s a lot of big guys.

“It’s a very physical league and it will take some adapting to be able to use my body the way I need to and be a presence in my goal.”

The midweek game was played in very rainy conditions. Slonina said: “It definitely wasn’t ideal but weather can never be an excuse. The other 21 players on the field have to deal with the same conditions. It’s manageable.”