Barnsley defender Toby Sibbick believes that the club are a work in progress, following a difficult start upon their return to the Championship this season.

Having won promotion from League One at the first attempt during the previous campaign, Barnsley enjoyed the perfect start to life back in the second tier, with a 1-0 win over newly relegated Fulham at Oakwell on the opening day of the season.

Since then however, the Tykes have picked up just two points from their subsequent five league games, while also suffering a shock 3-0 defeat at home to League Two side Carlisle United in the first round of the Carabao Cup.

Despite that, Sibbick - who was one of 12 new signings to join the club during the transfer window -  believes that his new side are starting to get up to the standard needed to compete at this level.

Reflecting on the progress made by Barnsley so far this season, Sibbick told The Star: “Every day we are working on the training pitch to get better and improve.

“The gaffer has got his style and everyone buys into it. I think that is the main thing. If the players don’t buy into it, we won’t gel as a team. But I think we are buying into it and doing really well.”

After joining from League One AFC Wimbledon in the summer, Sibbick has played every minute of Barnsley's league campaign this season, and discussing his individual start to the year, the versatile 20-year-old added: “I think the gaffer likes how I play.

“He is trusting me and I am grateful for the opportunity. For him to bring me here and play in the Championship, not many players get to do that."

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It seems as though Sibbick is enjoying life at his new club, as he concluded: “The lads are great. They are so welcoming. Every day in training we have a good laugh in the changing room. The atmosphere is good.”

Barnsley are currently 21st in the Championship, and are next in league action when they host local rivals Leeds United at Oakwell next Sunday.

The Verdict

I do agree with Sibbick here.

Barnsley were certainly busy throughout the course of the summer, and you imagine that sort of change is going to have an impact on any side.

The fact that Sibbick talks about improvement on the training ground, and a good atmosphere behind the scenes should be an encouraging sign for Barnsley fans, since it does suggest that there is still confidence around the club this season.

From an individual perspective, I've also been impressed with Sibbick's own performances this season, and you imagine he may well have a big part to play in his new side's push for survival this season.