Tykes Times

[PUREADE1@Ajax]

"DANDO'S DEBUT DELIGHT: Barnsley's Boss Blazes into Premier League with Big Dreams and Bold Moves!"

Interview with Hayden Dando, Manager of Barnsley Football Club

Club Reporter: "Hayden, you've had a whirlwind start to the season at Barnsley. Let's start with the incredible 3-2 victory over Aston Villa. Can you walk us through that experience?"

Hayden Dando: "Absolutely. The match against Aston Villa was a litmus test for us. We showed resilience and character. Andy Delort's performance was top-notch, and Ryan Kent's late winner was a moment of pure magic. The team's spirit was evident, and to clinch it in such a dramatic fashion was thrilling for everyone involved."

Club Reporter: "Moving on to the FA Cup win against Peterborough United. A 3-0 victory is a strong statement. What's your take on that?"

Dando: "The FA Cup has its unique challenges, and facing Peterborough was no different. Zappacosta's opening goal set us off on the right foot. Delort continued his fine form, and Maddison, our captain, stepped up when it mattered. It's this kind of comprehensive team performance that we aim to replicate consistently."

Club Reporter: "The draw with Crystal Palace was a tough encounter, especially with Edgar's injury. How significant is this for the team?"

Dando: "Edgar has been a key player for us, so his injury is a setback. However, it's an opportunity for others to step up. We're focused on maintaining our defensive discipline and will be looking to adapt our strategies to remain robust at the back."

Club Reporter: "The transfer market has seen some surprising moves. Romeo Laivia's swift departure and the swap deal with Bayern Munich have been the talk of the town. What's your strategy behind this?"

Dando: "The decision with Romeo was difficult but strategic. In Noni Mandueke and Marcelo Brozovic, we're bringing in proven quality. Mandueke's attacking prowess and Brozovic's midfield experience will be invaluable. It's about building a squad that not only survives but competes at the highest level."

Club Reporter: "Looking forward, you have a challenging lineup of fixtures. How are you preparing the team?"

Dando: "Our approach is one game at a time. Newcastle and West Ham are formidable opponents, but we've shown we can compete. The FA Cup game against Stockport County is a potential banana skin, but we're preparing diligently. It's about striking a balance between respecting our opponents and playing to our strengths."

Club Reporter: "Finally, what are your overarching goals and hopes for this season at Barnsley?"

Dando: "Our primary goal is Premier League survival, hitting that 40-point mark. But beyond that, it's about laying down a foundation for the future. Developing a style of play that's both effective and entertaining is crucial. I want us to be a team that plays with heart and passion, a team that our fans can be proud of. We're not just here to participate; we're here to make our mark."

[PUREADE1@Ajax]

“Dando’s Reds Stun United: Barnsley Boss Eyes Glory After Premier Shocker!”

Hayden Dando recently caught up with us a following Fridays surprise 2-0
victory over Manchester United.


On the Victory Against Manchester United:

“Well, beating a team like Manchester United is always special, isn’t it? It tells you that we’re not here just to make up the numbers. We’ve got quality, and more importantly, we’ve got belief. It’s a result that speaks volumes about the lads’ commitment and the work we’re doing here at Barnsley.”

On the Season’s Impressive Start:

“The key? It’s hard work, plain and simple. There’s no secret formula. We’ve set ourselves a target, yes, but we approach every game with the intention to win, not just add numbers to the board. The lads have bought into that mentality, and it shows. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves; there’s still a long way to go.”

On the Performance of Key Players:

“Players like Dia, Delort, Madueke, Kent, and especially our captain, Maddison, have been exceptional. They’re not just talented individuals; they understand the game, the strategy, and what we’re trying to achieve as a team. It’s their ability to work together that’s making the difference.”

On the Upcoming Match Against Everton:

“Everton at Goodison Park is another challenge, but we approach every game the same way, with respect for our opponents but belief in our own ability. We’ll prepare thoroughly, focus on our game plan, and give it our all. That’s the Barnsley way.”

On the FA Cup Quarter Finals:

“It’s a fantastic achievement, and it shows the depth and quality we have in this squad. Cup runs can really galvanize a team, bring the players and fans together. We’ll take it one game at a time, but we’re not there just to participate; we want to compete, make no mistake about it.”




On Season’s Targets:

“Our initial target was 40 points, but in football, you have to adapt. We’re not resting on our laurels; we’ll push on, try to win every game, and see where that takes us. It’s about maintaining standards, performance levels, and keeping that hunger alive.”