Barnsley FC interim head coach Martin Devaney and midfielder Luca Connell on the sacking of Neill Collins

At the conclusion of the 2021–22 relegation season, Devaney, in his second stint as interim manager following two games in charge, stated: “As a colleague, I worked really well with Neill this year; it’s always disappointing to see a friend lose a job.”

However, the club made the decision, and I was asked to play in this crucial game, so I had no qualms about accepting. I am eagerly anticipating it.

The club mainstay commented, “I think it’s football, it’s disappointing and you always set out to win a game and have an opposition trying to stop you from executing your game plan.” on the decision to split ways with Collins.

We struggled at times due to a lack of focus, and as games progress, pressure naturally increases and expectations are raised.

“Although we were unable to cross the finish line, we still have a great opportunity that is within our control, and we can only hope for an extremely successful outcome.”

Although Austrian head coach Dominik Thalhammer is firmly linked to the permanent position, Devaney has made it clear that he is not considering his own future in command beyond this Saturday’s game. However, he has acknowledged that coming in ahead of the season’s final game is an uncommon situation.

“My focus is Saturday, that’s all I am concerned about,” he continued.

One can never predict when they may enter a team and be expected to lead and manage them.

It’s a chance and a club that I hold very dear. I know how important it is for the supporters and everyone at this football team, which is why I want to accomplish it so badly (as do the boys).

“Over the past two or three days, Jon (Stead, Collins’ assistant) has been a huge help. He’s been excellent and upbeat.

Luca Connell, a midfielder, acknowledges that Collins’ departure was a “huge shock.”

“It was a massive shock to everyone involved and at the club,” Connell stated. It’s never pleasant to witness someone lose their job, particularly if you work so closely with them every day.

However, since it’s football, we must now focus on Saturday.

“We all saw it, obviously, because the CEO sent a message informing us that it would happen and it was clearly messaged to the public on Instagram and other platforms.”

Regarding if the players had let Collins down, he continued, saying, “I believe it’s fair to say so. We have, nevertheless, also made him proud in a few areas.

“I believe that everyone needs to examine himself and that it’s difficult to just point fingers. The gaffer has probably taken a close look at himself. Since the gaffer is no longer with us, we must examine ourselves rather than merely point fingers.