Coventry v Barnsley: Johnson understands fans’ displeasure

Saturday’s 2-0 defeat at Scunthorpe United set an unwanted statistic for Barnsley, who had never previously been beaten in six successive matches at third-tier level.

History is not in their favour tonight with the lowly Reds having not won in Coventry in 23 attempts all the way back to 1923.

Johnson is grateful for small mercies in that October is finally over after a torrid run.

While some fans voiced their support at Glanford Park, others called for his dismissal at the final whistle.

Johnson said: “They are a bit confused at the moment and I understand that. I am a big boy, I can take it on the chin.

“I understand that we are not getting the results, which leads to people getting upset because they are passionate. That’s part of the reason I have fallen in love with the club because of the fans’ passion.

“I don’t blame anybody for any comment they make. We take them on and try and get better.

“I am motivated by unbelievable hurt at the moment. Of course, you get down because you want to win.

“But motivation doesn’t change for me and I make sure that every day I come in bright and breezy because you have got to pick the players up.”

Johnson yesterday held a recruitment meeting with Reds owner Patrick Cryne, with the club having handed former midfielder Hugo Colace, 31, a trial.

Last six games: Coventry DWDDDW, Barnsley LWLLLL.

Referee: M Bull (Essex).

Last time: Coventry 2 Barnsley 2; August 19, 2014; League One.