Martin Devaney says Barnsley’s losing EFL Trophy campaign has given the staff a better idea of the depth of their squad but added of the youngsters and fringe players: ‘generally, they have to be better.’
The Reds lost 3-1 at home to Doncaster Rovers on Tuesday, a third loss out of three group games. They went 2-0 down before Conor McCarthy pulled one back.
Devaney said: “A couple of the young boys did OK but generally they have to be better. We’ve used this tournament to get the young lads experience, and minutes for the fringe players.
“Goals change games and Doncaster scored at the right times. They maybe could have had more.
“The league takes priority. This competition is about seeing those players and, if they are not playing on a Saturday, they have to play games. We have given players an opportunity. Some have done well, some haven’t. We certainly, as a staff, have a better idea of where they are.”
Bayley McCann, 18, made his full debut against a team managed by his father Grant, the former Reds midfielder.
Devaney said: “It’s great for the family and Grant. It must be a strange feeling. I thought Bailey coped really well and had strong moments. Credit to him for doing it under that pressure. It’s a fantastic experience for him, Bayley has a good mentor in Grant and can always lean on him for experience knowledge.”
Bayley added: "I was more excited than nervous. My dad has watched me in every game and playing against his team just made me more excited and want to play better. I think I did well."
Kieren Flavell made his debut in goal. Devaney said: “Generally he did well. His kicking was OK. They are young players coming into this environment and it’s tough. They have to experience these things to learn. When they go into the first team and the three points really matter, they have that experience. As a club we want to develop young players from the academy. We will give them opportunities and see if they can handle it. A lot of it is mentality.”
Flavell added: “I don’t think we performed to our potential and that was made clear at half-time and full-time. We conceded a suckerpunch goal just before half-time and 0-0 would have flattered us. We have to react better.
“It’s really good to make my debut. It’s something I have been working towards for a long time. I have been here since I was eight so I have been waiting for my debut.”
