KELECHI Nwakali says adding physicality and defensive steel to his obvious footballing talent has been key to him finally getting an opportunity for Barnsley.

The 26-year-old Nigerian midfielder had played just a few minutes of League One football after signing from Portuguese club Chavez in the summer on a three-year deal.

But, when Max Watters had to come off after seven minutes with the Reds already 1-0 down at Cambridge on Saturday, the former Arsenal youngster came on and produced an impressive performance in a 1-1 draw.

Nwakali told the Chronicle: “The game had just started.

“When Max came to the sideline to tell the physios that he didn’t feel alright, the gaffer said to warm up then the next thing it’s ‘you’re going in.’

“It was a surprise but, at the same time, I was ready for the moment.

“From the warm-up they tell everybody to be ready because you never know what is going to happen.

“I have been in a situation like this before in Portugal.

“The most important thing is to be ready to help the team, and give a good response.”

He added: “I have been waiting for the opportunity.

“I said to myself: ‘it’s time to take this opportunity, but don’t be selfish, do the right thing to help the team.’

“We spoke within the week and the gaffer told me I have what he likes in a player.

“He’s one of the gaffers who gives you confidence as a player.”

Nwakali has been behind in terms of fitness after having no pre-season and has been working to improve on the training pitch with Darrell Clarke and his staff.

“The most important thing is football is played in two phases. I know when it comes to the attacking part, I am very good. But I have to improve my defending.

“I have been working with the gaffer and the backroom staff to improve that.

“To be able to play you have to be fit and it’s all about physicality in League One.”

Nwakali played as a holding midfielder, often called a number six. He said: “I can play as a ten or an eight. But most times I have played as six.”

With captain Luca Connell due to return from suspension, it is unclear if Nwakali – who is yet to play in the league at Oakwell – will have earned a start against Wigan on Saturday.

“The most important thing is the team. That comes first before individuals.

“Whatever the gaffer thinks, is best for the team. There is a lot off competition. I want to play but it’s not my decision.”

On the Cambridge game overall, Nwakali said: “We deserved to win. We had a lot of chances.

“But it’s football. It’s one of those afternoons which can happen.

“But we’ve got a point and we move on.”