NICKY Cadden welcomes his battle with Callum Styles for the left wing-back position in Barnsley’s team.
The 27-year-old Scotsman has played in all but one of the Reds’ 26 league games this season, missing only the home draw with Charlton Athletic last month when he had a minor injury.
But he has started just two of the last seven league games with Callum Styles often preferred.
Cadden told the Chronicle: “I respect the manager’s decision.
“I just have to show him what I can do every time I play. There is competition in football. Somebody is always trying to take your shirt.
“It’s up to you to play well and stay in the team. I think I have played well this season so hopefully I can play a lot more.
“Stylesy is a really good player. There is competition throughout the squad. It keeps us on our toes.”
Some fans have questioned the quality of League One this season after three teams were promoted last season on more than 95 points.
“I think it’s just as strong.
“I wouldn’t be surprised if more teams get 95 or more points.
“We’re on track to get many more points than last year. Every game in this league is hard no matter who you play. It’s a very tough league.”
Barnsley now visit Stevenage and Oxford who are the teams directly below them in the table.
“We prepare as if it’s any other game. We don’t look at the table too much. We know they will be two hard away games. If we perform well, I am sure we will get the wins.
“Stevenage are going to make it difficult. It’s a small pitch, they will lump it forward, but they have good players who can hurt us. We need to be on the ball and hopefully get the win. It’s always good to win away and send the fans home happy.
“They pay money to travel around the country to see us. When you get the win and clap the fans at the end, you can see everyone going mental. That’s why you become a footballer.”
