SCOTT Banks knew of Barnsley’s interest when he played against them for Blackpool on January 17 but, even after joining the Reds, he is still hurting from the way that game ended.
The Scottish winger was partly at fault for David McGoldrick’s injury-time winner which proved to be his last action for the Tangerines as his loan there from St Pauli was cancelled and he arrived at Oakwell on loan just over a week later.
Banks told the Chronicle: “I knew about the interest probably a couple of weeks prior then after the game it started to move quickly. After the game, being able to speak to the manager here made it an easy decision to come.
“I like to think I am a good professional and that it would never come into my game, thinking about where I am going to be in the future. I was so disappointed for Blackpool after that game, I felt I could have done better in that game.
“It was frustrating and it’s still hurting me now.
“But to come here and give everything I can to Barnsley now is the aim.”
Banks started just two league matches for Blackpool who, once Steve Bruce was sacked and replaced by Ian Evatt, switched to a 3-5-2 system which did not suit him. He is expected to play on the right wing for Barnsley.
“To play regularly in my natural position is super-exciting.
“It’s no one’s fault but circumstances at previous clubs are just how it’s ended up. I don’t hold any grudges to anyone.
“But if I get a run of games I hope I can prove what I can do at this level.”
Banks’ parent club St Pauli play in the German top flight and he made 12 appearances off the bench last season.
“For a kid from a small town in Scotland, never did I think that I would play at Dortmund or Leipzig – incredible stadiums. I really enjoyed the experience and learned a lot but I had to come and play my football and coming into League One has been really exciting. The levels are different in a lot of ways but I focus on what is in front of me and I am excited for what we can do.”
Banks played in front of right-back Corey O’Keeffe this week.
“He has obviously played a lot of games and he has so much energy. I am coming in having not played as much as I would have liked, so it’s great to have someone behind me who feels like he can run forever and he’s a great professional.”
Banks has been used on the right with Reyes Cleary on the left.
He said: “I hope I can relieve some of the pressure he’s had every week. I know a lot of teams will be prepared to focus on him and maybe double up on him. But if I can be a threat on the other side, he will have more space and time to work.”
