Lure too big for LJ

Reporter: Matthew Chambers
Date published: 26 February 2015


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MONEY to spend, personal and club ambitions and bigger crowds were the factors that persuaded Lee Johnson to move to Barnsley.

The deal is understood to be worth around £75,000 in compensation to Athletic.

The 33 year old’s switch to Oakwell - with right-hand-man Tommy Wright - is on a three-year contract - despite Barnsley sitting in 16th place in the league, seven places behind Athletic.

Johnson described two conversations with Barnsley owner Patrick Cryne that persuaded him to make the move. He’s hoping to make a late charge towards the top six with his new club.

The fixture list features a game away to Athletic on March 14 — which is sure to be a charged-up affair.

“I have to be honest, it’s not been easy,” Johnson said. “I had two fantastic years at Oldham and I was very, very fond of everybody, from the fans to the board and players.

“However the lure was too big. I’m excited by the owner’s passion for the club and I bought into that. I had a decision to make and felt it was right for my career. I want to be a part of it and make sure I am the one who delivers that.”

Athletic stressed the club wouldn’t stand in the way of the manager’s wish to move up the ladder - and it is clear that is what Johnson believes his switch represents.

His quest now is to rebuild and get the Tykes back to the Championship as quickly as possible.

Consistently low crowds at SportsDirect.com Park - such as the paltry 3,451 figure against Swindon despite Athletic heading into that clash in the play-off zone - will have frustrated Johnson, with financial fair-play rules dictating gate money has a direct impact on playing budget.

Barnsley’s last home game against Crewe attracted a crowd of 8,635.