Barnsley FC Weekly Round-Up: Russell’s No-Holiday Hustle, Blandy’s Big Week, and Gauci Eyes Glory
Right then, Tykes — slap on some aftersun and grab a Calippo. Because while the sun might be out, Oakwell’s showing no signs of putting its feet up. We’ve got Jamaican drills, international call-ups, fresh deals for two homegrown stars, and one loanee plotting a World Cup run and a Premier League breakthrough. Who said the off-season was quiet?
Russell Swerves the Sunlounger
While most of us are debating if it’s “too hot for a brew,” Jon Russell’s already halfway through a boot camp with Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz. Instead of kicking back with a cocktail, the big midfielder’s strapping on his boots for the Unity Cup at Brentford — with fixtures on May 27 and 31 — before diving headfirst into World Cup qualifiers in June.
And if that wasn’t enough, he’s got one eye on this summer’s CONCACAF Gold Cup. He’s not just going for the vibes — he wants that shirt nailed on. He even told the press he’s been inspired by Conor Hourihane’s intense training regime, drawing comparisons with his former Huddersfield boss Carlos Corberan. No messing about.
Jon’s working harder than your uncle at a wedding buffet.
???? Source: Yorkshire Post – Barnsley FC and ex-Huddersfield Town midfielder Jon Russell on working summer plus key Conor Hourihane comparison
Contract Double: Flavell & Bland Sign On
Kieren Flavell: Gloves On, Contract Signed
Kieren Flavell, our very own academy-bred keeper, has penned a new two-year deal (with an optional extra year) after stepping up during last season’s injury chaos. Hourihane trusted him. Flavell delivered. Sormaz called him “mature beyond his years.” Oakwell called him “our lad.” Everyone’s happy.
???? Source: Barnsley Chronicle – Barnsley reward homegrown goalkeeper's progression with new contract
Jonathan Bland: All Action, No Drama
Bland by name, but not by nature. The teenage midfielder has signed a long-term deal through to 2028 (plus a one-year option), after impressing across nine senior appearances last season. Calm, composed, and not afraid to put himself about — Hourihane says he’s shown “fantastic maturity.” We say: “Get in, Blandy!”
???? Source: Barnsley Chronicle – Young midfielder Bland signs new deal
Wales Come Calling for Blandy
Just days after signing his new deal, Blandy's bag is already packed — destination: sunny Spain. The young midfielder has been called up to the Wales U21 squad for their friendly against Norway on June 6. Camp kicks off on May 31 in Malaga. No word yet if Hourihane’s given him suncream advice, but we reckon “cover your man before your shoulders” still applies.
???? Source: Barnsley FC – Bland Called Up to Wales U21
Gauci Gears Up for World Stage
Meanwhile, back in the Southern Hemisphere, Joe Gauci’s doing his best to make up for lost time. After a solid loan spell at Oakwell (cut short by a hip injury), the Aussie keeper’s back in the Socceroos camp — aiming to start in June’s qualifiers against Japan and Saudi Arabia.
He’s also returning to Villa Park this summer, where he’s got one eye on Emiliano Martínez’s gloves. World Cup dreams and a Premier League breakthrough? No pressure, Joe.
“Everyone wants to be up for selection,” he told Aussie press. “I’m pushing hard.”
???? Source: Yahoo News Australia – Gauci eyeing breakthrough for Villa and Socceroos
Final Whistle
So there you have it. While other clubs are browsing Ryanair deals, Barnsley’s knuckling down — new contracts, international caps, and midfielders trading seaside strolls for Spanish showdowns. Russell’s sprinting through summer, Bland’s swapping Oakwell for Malaga, and Gauci’s aiming for Martinez’s gloves.
And you lot? Get the BBQ lit and the home shirt washed — pre-season will be here quicker than a rumour on the West Stand concourse.
Red Army!