Barnsley Chief Executive Ben Mansford has admitted that caretaker manager Paul Heckingbottom is putting forward a strong case for landing the job on a permanent basis according to the Barnsley Chronicle.
Under the management of Barnsley born Heckingbottom, The Tykes went on to enjoy one of the club’s greatest days yesterday when they lifted the Johnstones’ Paint Trophy at Wembley following the 3-2 defeat of League 2 promotion chasers Oxford United.
The 38 year old has been in caretaker charge at Oakwell since former boss Lee Johnson left the club to join Bristol City in early February and the former Barnsley season ticket holder has worked wonders with his hometown club, guiding The Tykes to within four points of the League 1 Play Off places.
After providing the club with much needed stability following Lee Johnson’s departure Chief Executive Ben Mansford paid tribute to the club’s caretaker.
“Paul is doing very well and putting himself in the frame for the full-time job,” Mansford confessed to the Barnsley Chronicle.
“He has taken to the role really well. He has been well-supported by Tommy Wright (assistant) and John Vaughan (goalkeeper coach) who are two really experienced football professionals.”
“Everything the staff and players gave to Lee they are giving to Paul and that is what we wanted. He has put his own stamp on the team and made a few tweaks and, I am sure, if Paul is the man to lead us forward in the long-term he will continue to do that.”
“We wanted Paul to have time to get to know the role without any time frame so the clock wasn’t ticking for him.”
“Paul has an opportunity to achieve something really special this season and then we will see where we are in May.”
Barnsley return to League 1 action on Saturday when they welcome struggling Chesterfield to Oakwell.
