Whatever happens after Barnsley’s League One play-off second leg against Bolton Wanderers on Tuesday night, John McAtee will remember his time with the Oakwell club fondly in the years to come.
With a strong double-figure goal return during his season-long loan from Luton Town, the striker has much to be thankful for.
Given his accomplishments, the smart money is on the Salford-born athlete trying himself in the Championship next season at a location to be determined.
If Barnsley makes it all the way back to the second tier, an Oakwell comeback could be on the cards.
If his parent club is demoted, they may elect to keep him, and considering McAtee’s second-tier interest in the January transfer window, there are likely to be plenty of takers if the Hatters decide to send him out again.
McAtee stated, “I am really thrilled. I believe I could have scored a few more goals, but that goes for any player. “You won’t score them all.”But I’m glad I could help the team and get us to this point where we have a decent opportunity.
“I’ve had a good season, and whatever happens next season will come. I believe that anybody in football wants to play at the highest level possible.
“So if I do get an opportunity to play in the Championship, whether it’s Barnsley or whoever, I’d hope to and it’s a goal of mine.”
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In addition to scoring goals, McAtee has integrated smoothly into the club’s dressing room and proven to be a popular part of the squad.
He said: “I have got a good relationship with a lot of players and the longer the season has gone on, I’ve got to know the lads better and I have really enjoyed linking up with a lot of the lads.”
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