Barnsley striker Oli McBurnie has been named the Sky Bet Championship Player of the Month for February.
The young Scot has made a startling impact at Oakwell, scoring four goals in four starts – all but one of Barnsley’s tally in February. He wants the ball all the time, loves to take on defenders using his trickery and knows how to finish.
Barnsley manager José Morais said: “It’s deserved, he’s a young player with an influence on the team. So far he’s been excellent and scored four goals in four games in February which is great for us. He’s creating a strong impact in the team and this proves he’s a talent, and a young talent too, I totally agree with the award being given to him – we are thankful for this.”
McBurnie said: “It is the best start I could have asked for on a personal note. Coming out on loan, it was about coming down and getting some games and scoring some goals and thankfully this month I have been able to do that. It's a good start and hopefully now I can carry it on.”
“The boys have been a massive help, settling in straight away is a massive part when you come on loan.”
Sky Sports’ EFL pundit Don Goodman said: “If Barnsley survive in the Sky Bet Championship this season, I wouldn’t be surprised if it was down to the arrival of Oli McBurnie.
“To come in on loan at a team that is really struggling, and are as low on confidence as Barnsley are, and to score four of their five goals in your first month is a really outstanding effort.”
Sky Bet EFL trader Mikey Mumford said: “McBurnie couldn’t have dreamed of a better start to life at Oakwell after his move to the club in the summer was scuppered and only forced through late on January deadline day.
“The young Scot has been responsible for all but one of Barnsley’s goals in February which including an important brace at relegation-threatened Birmingham. A Paul Heckingbottom signing, the Swansea loanee looks set to play a pivotal role if new manager Jose Morais keeps them in the Championship.”