This summer will be a crucial one for Barnsley FC. Big decisions have already been taken and big decisions will need to be made in order for a successful season and to pave the way for the next few years. Here's how this summer's business has concluded so far:
WOODROW LEAVES
The first departure of the summer was Cauley Woodrow who has left the reds after 4 years to join Championship Luton Town. In his 4 years with the club, the Striker didn't experience a dull season with some real highs and lows: In his first season, Barnsley won promotion to the Championship under Daniel Stendel, with Woodrow bagging 14 goals and playing 27 games. The next season, Barnsley stayed up on the very last day in the very last minute as Woodrow scored 14 goals throughout the season to help keep Barnsley up. In his third season, Woodrow heavily featured under Ismael as the Tykes reached the Championship Play-Offs and enjoyed our most successful season this decade with Woodrow playing 44 times, scoring 13 goals, and getting 5 assists. His fourth and final season was just as eventful as the other 3, but a lot more negative for both Woodrow and Barnsley. Woodrow was given the captaincy before the season started but things soon started to turn sour as the striker called out the fans as 'fickle' turning many of his admirers into enemies. Cauley experienced an injury mid-way through the season, causing a lengthy spell on the sidelines, he featured just 25 times under Schopp and Asbaghi scoring only 4 goals.
Woodrow would've undoubtedly been useful for Barnsley in League One but the transfer has been well received by Barnsley fans. The wages saved and transfer fee gained should have a positive effect on BFC and hopefully allowing other important players to stay. The club should now hunt for an extra striker however we have some good striking options for League One with Carlton Morris, Devante Cole, Aaron Leya Iseka, and Jack Aitchinson.
FIRST SIGNING OF THE WINDOW
Barnsley's first signing of the window was Jamie Searle, a young Goalkeeper from New Zealand on a free transfer after leaving Swansea City. The 21-year-old keeper joins to add to the depth in the goalkeeping department and not as an initial number 1. The goalkeeping department at Barnsley is looking strong with Searle joining Brad Collins, Jack Walton, and young 'keeper Kieran Flavell.
LUCA CONNELL JOINS THE THE REDS
Barnsley have signed exciting 21-year-old midfielder Luca Connell on a free transfer from Scottish Giants Celtic. After impressing at Bolton Wanderers, Connell joined Celtic in 2019. However, he failed to leave his mark on Celtic Park and was sent on loan to fellow Glasgow club Queens Park. Luca helped Queens Park win back-to-back promotions, from Scottish League 2 to Scottish League 1 and then Scottish League 1 to the Championship. He played 27 games last season, scoring 7 goals from midfield. Connell has played for Ireland at every level between u17s and u21s, should the Irishman hit the ground running at Oakwell and impress at League One level - a first-team Ireland call-up could be on the cards.
Connell brings undoubtable quality and promise to the Barnsley - an exciting transfer for Tyke's fans.
ROBBIE CUNDY SIGNS
Barnsley have signed another free agent, Robbie Cundy, after he turned down a new contract offer at Bristol City. The 6ft2in center back made 14 appearances for the Robins in the Championship last season. Cundy has had a hard path to Oakwell - from being released by Oxford United and Aston Villa to cleaning a gym for a living, playing in non-league, and suffering from injuries. The CB has had a tough route to where he is now but it has made him a tougher player and person. The 25-year-old undoubtedly has what it takes to be a success in League One.
Cundy for Bath City FC
REDS SIGN CONOR McCARTHY
Barnsley's fourth signing and fourth free transfer of the window is Conor McCarthy, another central defender. The 6ft3in defender joins from Scottish Premier League side, St Mirren.
McCarthy made 66 appearances for Cork City and 68 appearances for St Mirren. McCarthy made appearances in the Champions League and Europa League for Cork, a valuable experience for the defender.
The reds now have great depth and quality in central defence with Michal Helik, Mads Andersen, Liam Kitching, Jasper Moon, Jordan Williams, Robbie Cundy, and Conor McCarthy.
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