Flicker vows to fight on

Caretaker manager David Flitcroft has vowed to keep fighting for as long as he is needed at the club.

Flitcroft has been in charge of the squad since Keith Hill left on December 29 and would like the job full-time although he admits it is unlikely.

He said: “I can’t get too clouded by what’s going on off the pitch. I have to focus on this group of players, which is the real reason why I’m still here at Barnsley. I’m the guardian of the team at the minute, and can’t even call myself the manager.

“We brought this group of players together and until I’m relieved of my duties I’ll fight toe to toe with them. I see so much of myself in them. They’ve worked so hard to get to the Championship and they don’t want to give that up.

“While I see that desire and fight I won’t give up on them. I’ll have to face these players over the coming years and I don’t want them to ever be able to accuse me of deserting them.

“I understand the people of the town are hurting. They are hurting because of results and managers turning them down, and because of where we are in the table. It’s not been easy for everyone involved at the football club in the last few months.

“But I want to galvanise the whole town to get behind the players tomorrow. You might not want me as your next manager but tomorrow is all about Leeds United and it’s all about beating them and getting three points. With everyone’s support and backing we can do it.”