'We need to' - Amani Richards shares goal for youthful Barnsley FC squad after loss to Leeds United U21s
Amani Richards has discussed the youthful nature of Barnsley’s squad
Amani Richards has insisted Barnsley need to show they are more than just a young squad.
Much has been made of the youthfulness at Oakwell, with Daniel Stendel’s squad having an average age of just 22.8.
21-year-old forward Richards was among the young recruits in the summer transfer window, sealing a permanent move to South Yorkshire from Leicester City.
Youth has its benefits but naivety often comes with it and Stendel’s inexperienced players need to show maturity that defies their tender years in League One.
Amani Richards on Barnsley’s youthfulness
After Barnsley’s 4-3 loss to Leeds United Under-21s in the EFL Trophy last night (September 22), Richards said: “I think obviously we still have a few experienced players in the team, like the likes of Luca [Connell] and Cam [McGeehan], who really get around the boys and really show their leadership qualities as well.
“I feel like we do still have a good balance. People always say ‘they're a young team’, which is true. But we need to start showing that we're not just a young team and that we're a good footballing team.
“It takes a lot to focus on your own performance and then obviously help out others as well. That's been kind of the story of the last few weeks, that we need more leaders throughout the team. And I feel like boys are starting to step up a little bit more now. We need to keep pushing it and just try to keep the standards really high.”
Amani Richards enjoying Barnsley life
Prior to Richards’ arrival at Oakwell, his six appearances during a loan spell at Exeter City represented his only senior exposure. He made his 10th appearance and scored his second goal for the Reds last night, appearing as a half-time substitute in their EFL Trophy defeat.
A former England youth international and ex-Chelsea and Arsenal academy prospect, Richards is relishing the opportunity he has been given in senior football.
He said: “I'm really enjoying it. It's a great environment to be in. Obviously, everyone being so young and always pushing to be better, it's a really ambitious dressing room.
“Obviously, unfortunate tonight, but as a whole, I feel like you can kind of see what we're trying to build here. It's been really good so far.”