DONOVAN Pines is hoping to hit his personal target for this season of starting 30 games while also helping to build the confidence of some of his ‘down in the dumps’ Barnsley team-mates.

The Reds have taken just a point from the last four games and slipped down to tenth in League One.

American centre-back Pines told the Chronicle: “I am a really positive guy. I don’t take things too seriously but it is our job and we have make sure we’re doing it right.

“A lot of other guys are negative and down in the dumps but we have to stay positive. I will try to help with that.

“Hopefully we can get a string of positive results and then we can turn the tide of the season.”

He added: “We just need to work hard on the little things and get over the hump. We have to hold each other accountable, rise to the occasion and lead by example.”

Pines has so far made 14 starts in the league this season, coming off the bench seven other times, and also starting three cup ties.

After being a substitute for much of the season, he has started seven of the last ten games, due to some injuries and also the recent suspension of Marc Roberts.

“I will keep doing my best, keep doing the little things right and not get too high or low. I want to make the most of playing.

“I set a goal of making 30 starts this season and, if get that, I will be really really happy.”

Barnsley were held 0-0 at home to lowly Burton Albion on Saturday.

Pines said: “We always want to win, especially at Oakwell to give the fans something to hold onto.

“But we played a team who have been unbeaten in five and we got a clean sheet which is all that matters and we’ll keep moving forward and stay positive going into Stockport.”

Goalkeeper Joe Gauci made his debut in goal after signing last week.

Pines said: “Joe was excellent.

“I told him ‘let’s get a clean sheet for your first game.’

“I played really hard to try to get him that.

“He’s a really good guy and we are excited to have him here.”