Barnsley have just contested a 0-0 draw with Nottingham Forest and one of the biggest bright sparks from the game was Luca Connell. Connell showed an ability to control the midfield and certainly seems an exciting prospect for Barnsley.
The Forest game let Connell showcase his ability to accurately ping passes across the field as well as his ability to move the ball between players and connect play between the backline. Connell’s cross-field passes were met with applause from a pleased Barnsley crowd. The 21-year-old midfielder also showed his eagerness to tackle and get stuck in, however, was given a yellow card for a rash challenge in the first half. The scouser always asked for the ball and looked to dribble forward or play a pass. In the first half, Connell showed a tidy piece of skill to beat his man 1on1 which was again met by a strong set of applause by the Barnsley faithful. The young man brings flair mixed in with hard work and true graft, an exciting prospect for Tykes fans to look forward to.
(Above written after 0-0 draw with Forest 16/7/22)
Connell impressed again against higher league opposition in Barnsley's victory against Sheffield United. He sat in the center of midfield and connected play with passes long and short, at times he showed great skill and got himself into rough tackles. Luca also was noticeably very vocal, shouting out instructions to his teammates.
Connell seemingly has the makings of a very assured and elegant center mid aswell as a future Barnsley captain. He has caught the eye of many reds fans and Michael Duff alike, so far he seems like a great coup on a free transfer.
Career so far
Luca started his footballing journey at Bolton Wanderers. He rose through the youth ranks at Bolton and made his debut in 2019. Connell greatly impressed in the championship for Bolton and following his strong performances, was signed by Celtic. However, Luca failed to leave his mark on Celtic Park and was loaned out to fellow Scottish club Queens Park for 2 successive years and won back-to-back promotions with them. He scored 7 goals in his 27 appearances for Queens Park last season. Luca was released by Celtic this summer and thus signed for Barnsley on a free transfer.
Connell has played for Ireland U17, U18, U19, and U21.
A 16-year-old Connell playing for Bolton u18s.
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