The Barnsley FC wonderkid that fans need to 'really watch out for' - he's the 'next big thing' at Oakwell | OneFootball

Jonathan Bland is catching attention at Oakwell after breaking into the first team towards the end of last season

This article is part of Football League World's 'Terrace Talk' series, which provides personal opinions from our FLW Fan Pundits regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more...

Young prospect Jonathan Bland has been tipped to be “the player to watch out for” at Barnsley this season.

The 19-year-old broke into the first team last season and has kept his place into the new term.

So far, he’s split his time between right-back, midfield and centre-back, already showing an adaptability that will be desirable to managers.

Asked for who the club’s next big thing might be, our Barnsley fan pundit, Andy Symcox, wasted no time nodding to the youngster.

Jonathan Bland tipped to be next big thing at Barnsley

Speaking to Football League World, Andy said: “We have a number of young players as emerging talent, for example, Vimal Yoganathan and Connor Barratt.

“But for me, the player to really watch out for is 19-year-old Jonathan Bland.

“Jonathan forced his way into the first team towards the end of last season, where he played at right-back.

“However, this season, he's in his more natural position, as a defensive midfield player, and he is a real talent.

“For me, he is set to be the next big thing at Barnsley Football Club.

“He covers a lot of ground, he tackles well, he can move with the ball, and pass appropriately.

“He breaks up play exceptionally well. If we lose the ball, he's quick to regain possession.

“He really is the player to watch out for. He's developing into a huge, huge talent.”

He could be key for Barnsley this season

The fact he has already racked up seven League One appearances for the Tykes this season, almost equalling his total from last season, suggests this campaign is shaping up to be Bland’s true breakout season.

So far, he’s made four starts and made another three appearances off the bench.

Again, as last season, he has split his time between full-back and midfield, which could be crucial in supplying Conor Hourihane options as the season goes on.

That adaptability is also sure to guarantee minutes for Bland, as it gives the manager options on the field, as well as covering numerous positions from the bench.

Barnsley clearly rate Jonathan Bland highly

Even before his established importance this season, Barnsley clearly recognised what a talent they had on their hands, moving over the summer to secure his future at the club.

In May this year, they signed Bland to a new three-year deal, with the option of an additional year; a strong show of faith in such a young talent.

That not only guarantees and solidifies his near future at the club, but also protects him as an asset to the club, so should interested parties from further up the pyramid test the waters in January or next summer, the Tykes have complete control over the outcome.

Speaking on the announcement of that contract, Bland said: “I’m delighted to get the deal done. Conor and the club have put a lot of faith in me, and I’m excited to build on what I’ve started and prove why I deserve it.”

The teenager has already set about that this season, and looks on course to be one to watch throughout this campaign; Barnsley could have a proper talent on their hands.