Gerhard Struber plans break before deciding on his Barnsley future

While still being in with a chance of securing Championship safety, the bottom-placed Reds must do it the hard way amid an imposing final three games of the campaign, starting at Leeds United tomorrow.

After that, Barnsley welcome Nottingham Forest before ending 2019-20 against another high-flying side in Brentford.

Despite an underwhelming return of just two points from nine against rivals towards the foot of the table, Struber is refusing to lose heart, but has revealed that he will pause for a short spell of reflection after the Reds finish their season at Griffin Park next Wednesday evening.

Struber, who arrived at the club last November, said: “My focus is on the next three games. I need all my energy and after that, I must reflect and see what is the best for everyone.

“My big focus is until the last game and then I need one week only for me and a little holiday and then we will speak together and reflect what is and then we will look forward.”

The Austrian is under no illusions about the extent of the challenge that awaits his side at Elland Road, but is calling on them to produce another ‘big surprise’ after taking six points from Fulham already this season and drawing twice against West Brom.

Struber, who will be without the services of Elliot Simoes (ankle) tomorrow, added: “This is a big challenge and I think it is the biggest in my career.

“It is one of the best teams in the league. Especially the plan on the ball, which is unbelievable. It is the reason they stay on the top.

“We work very hard for the luck and hope it comes back on Thursday and we can make a big surprise at Leeds.”

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