Victor Adeboyejo on his faith being rewarded at Barnsley FC

The forward - who was farmed out on loan last season to Bristol Rovers and Cambridge United - is now a firm part of the Reds’ first-team plans under new head coach Ismael, who handed him his first Championship start in Tuesday’s 2-1 win at Birmingham City

It is a reward for perseverance for the Londoner, 22, who joined Barnsley in November 2017 following a successful trial.

A part of the Reds’ promotion campaign in 2018-19 under Daniel Stendel, Adeboyejo - who showed his mettle at the start of his career in playing a host of non-league clubs including Royston Town, Hemel Hempstead, Heybridge Swifts, Dulwich Hamlet and Soham Town Rangers and Margate - is now intent on grasping his opportunity in the second tier.

On staying positive in his quest to make an impact at Championship level, Adeboyejo, who netted his first Championship goal in Barnsley’s win at Derby on November 7, said: “That is down to my faith as well and what the word and ‘father’ says about me and holding that dear to me as well and when I go out onto the pitch, (I have) to express myself and enjoy the gift I have been given which is the opportunity to play football at good levels.

“In the last three seasons, I thought it could be my time. It is just about the manager taking to you and giving you an opportunity.

“This season, more than ever, it does feel like that. It is just about taking the opportunity when it comes.

“From the first day, he just looked at me and explained that my qualities are something what he wants in the squad.

“He has given me that confidence and I am grateful for the opportunity.”