Barnsley boss Conor Hourihane hopeful over key duo ahead of deadline day
Conor Hourihane remains hopeful that in-demand pair Davis Keillor-Dunn and Reyes Cleary will remain at Barnsley beyond Monday's transfer deadline.
Top goalscorer Keillor-Dunn took his tally for the season to 16 with a double against Stevenage, while Cleary also contributed to a welcome 3-1 win.
With the window still open, Barnsley are fighting to keep the vultures at bay.
"We're really hoping so," said Hourihane on the club's prospects of retaining the duo.
"There's a lot of talk at the moment. From my point of view, it was really important to settle things down with a win. That's what we did.
"If I'm sitting here after a loss, people would be asking what's going on. Everyone's emotions are sky high but a win today keeps everyone calm.
"I'm hoping we'll be in a good place ready for Northampton on Tuesday."
Hourihane reverted to a back four on Saturday and was rewarded with a result that eases Barnsley's relegation fears.
David McGoldrick gave the hosts an early lead and Keillor-Dunn clinched the points either side of Dan Kemp's effort, taking Hourihane's side five points clear of the relegation zone.
"That was the best we've played for a while and really excited me," added the Barnsley boss.
"The team excited me going into the game – playing two wingers and two strikers at home.
"We were outstanding in the first half. It could have been three or four by half-time.
"We gave a poor goal away, which let them into the game and gave them a bit of hope. When Davo scored, it was about managing the game and doing the basics well. Overall, I thought we were worthy winners."