Video: Goalkeeper shows leading man potential for Barnsley

Stendel steps out in front of home supporters for the first time in a competitive fixture tomorrow and has plumped for Davies to take his place in goal ahead of young custodian Jack Walton.

It completes a turnaround for Davies, who was dropped to the bench at the end of last season, with rookie Walton preferred in goal.

And gloss has been provided by way of the captain’s armband for Davies, although a decision is still to be made on a full-time captain.

Stendel, speaking to the assembled press for the first time on Thursday morning, said: “It might be unusual that we have not named a captain yet. It is about getting to know the squad better and learning who is responsible in the team.

“That is why we still need time to name a (permanent) captain. But for Saturday’s game, it will be Adam Davies.”

Meanwhile, Stendel has confirmed that the Reds will be without a trio of players for the first-day appointment with the U’s.

“Ryan Hedges is injured on Saturday and Zeki (Fryers) and Jacob Brown are. We assume Ryan and Zeki will be out for three to five to six weeks.” the former Hannover boss added.