BARNSLEY captain Cauley Woodrow believes in Markus Schopp’s new style of play but admits: ‘we need to get the ball forward quicker, hurt teams and be clinical.’
The 26-year-old striker was isolated at times during Tuesday’s 1-0 loss to his first club Luton Town who had less than 30 per cent possession.
Schopp is attempting to move away from Valerien Ismael’s long ball style to a more passing approach. Woodrow told the Chronicle: “Last season we were so direct then against Luton we had a lot of the ball at the back and in midfield but we need to get the ball forward quicker, hurt teams and be clinical. That will come over time, it doesn’t happen overnight because it’s a new style.
“It’s nothing to be too down about.”
He added: “The fans have probably seen a different style to what they saw last season watching from home.
“We’re in the process of becoming a totally different style team to last season. We want to play a way the fans enjoy. It’s a work in progress but hopefully they can stick with us. They have been great the last few games.”
Woodrow, who was named captain by Schopp for this season, has enjoyed leading the team out this week with fans allowed back in the stadium after 18 months of behind-closed-doors fixtures.
“It’s a proud and nice feeling. I am happy to be captain and hopefully I am helping the lads as much as I can.
“It’s been nice to have the fans back in the stadium. Hopefully they are enjoying being back and watching us.
“It gives us an extra buzz because last season it was dull at times playing in front of no one.”
Woodrow is poised on 49 goals for the Reds and is yet to score this season, with a legitimate goal being ruled out last week at Bolton Wanderers. He said: “I had a good chance against Cardiff but the ‘keeper made a good save, I scored at Bolton but it was disallowed then the last two games I haven’t really had a chance. I am playing a new role, a little bit deeper. When it drops for me, I am sure it will be going in.”
Barnsley are without injured Carlton Morris and Mads Andersen while new signings Obbi Oulare and Aaron Leya Iseka are not deemed fit. Woodrow said: “We have been unfortunate with Carlton. He’s a big player for us and a great lad, one of my closest friends here. I am gutted for him but he will be back stronger in the coming months. Mads is looking good which is good for us and the new signings are getting fitter.”
