Luke Steele is hoping he can use Saturday's FA Cup quarter-final clash with Chelsea as an opportunity to raise his profile.
Tykes keeper seeking move away from West Brom
Barnsley stopper Luke Steele is hoping he can use Saturday's FA Cup quarter-final clash with Chelsea as an opportunity to raise his profile and secure a move away from the Hawthorns.
Steel is currently on an emergency loan at Oakwell after agreeing a deal with his contracted club, West Brom in February.
The Tykes keeper became an instant hero after producing a goalkeeping masterclass to inspire his side to a fifth round success over Liverpool at Anfield.
Despite the 23-year-old's recent exploits the former Manchester United keeper has endured a frustrating spell at the Hawthorns - featuring just twice since Bryan Robson signed him at the start of the 2006 season.
Realistic
Since Tony Mowbray took the helm in the West Midlands Dean Kiely has been the preferred choice, and Steel admits he is ready to move on.
"You have to be realistic," said Steele. "Tony Mowbray hasn't been playing me, and with Dean Kiely doing so well, I can see I will have to move on.
"You have to take these opportunities, so I do see my move here to Barnsley and tomorrow's game as a shop window in a way.
"I also have to prove to myself that I can play at this level because I lost confidence from being on the bench at West Brom.
"You need a run of games to restore your confidence before you can think about moving on."
Major shock
Steele believes Chelsea will be taking nothing for granted when they arrive at Oakwell on Saturday, but remains confident of pulling off another major shock.
"Chelsea will know about our win over Liverpool and all the flak and stick Rafael Benitez received afterwards," said Steele.
"It was a shock and they will want to make sure it doesn't happen again, but we're going to do all we can to make sure it does."
Barnsley boss Simon Davey has paid tribute to Steele's performances since his arrival at the club, and has revealed his interest in extending the 23-year-old's loan spell until the end of the season.
"I've spoken to West Brom about keeping Luke here until the end of the season," said Davey.
"They're happy with that and we have to talk things through with Luke and sort out the financial side.
"Luke has still got a bit of time on his loan, but I don't see any problems unless West Brom have a goalkeeping crisis in the next few weeks."
