Joey Barton delivers Bristol Rovers player verdict that will interest Barnsley | OneFootball

Bristol Rovers have turned somewhat of a corner in recent weeks, picking up seven points in their last four games.

The Gas, who currently sit 16th in the league table, netted in the 90th minute on Saturday through veteran striker Brett Pitman, to earn a point at Bradford City.

One player who seems to be hitting form at the right time is Barnsley loanee Luke Thomas, with Joey Barton speaking about how impressed he has been in an interview with Bristol Live.

Thomas has two assists in six league games with the League Two club so far this season, but his chances for first-team football have been limited since starting the first three games of the season.

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Speaking to Bristol Live about Thomas’ importance as the season progresses, Barton said: “His cameo at the weekend showed what a quality player he can be and he’s now in a position to be able to repeat that.

“Luke has worked hard and he’s got himself in better shape than he probably has been for a while and you’re starting to see that.

“Two assists in the Carlisle game, a goal in midweek and a really bright spark for us and took the performance on second half (at Bradford).

“For us, we want him to be a major player in our team.”

The verdict

Thomas has proven to be a massive threat in the higher division before, and can certainly go onto enjoy a successful career in English football, however, he has struggled to adapt to the demands of Barton.

Bristol Rovers as a whole have found it difficult this season, and whilst they have appeared to turn things around, they still sit as low as 16th in the league.

Thomas’ recent performances suggest that he could become an extremely influential player in the team this season, and it will be no surprise to see him start in the next couple of weeks.

Should he help Bristol Rovers enjoy a good season, then his first-team opportunities at Barnsley next year might increase.