Barker Draws Johnson's Plaudits

Blackpool defender Shaun Barker has drawn plaudits from Bristol City manager Gary Johnson following the 0-0 draw between the sides on Saturday.

The 26-year-old has found this season hard going out at right back, but has come into his own when moved into the heart of 'Pool's defence.

His slip in form had coincided with the emergence of Alex John-Baptiste at full back, but luckily for the former Rotherham man - who has always said that his best position is centre half - the dropping of Ian Evatt and now the injury to Rob Edwards has meant he is excelling at the back.

And Johnson was clearly impressed with Barker, after the vice captains performance at Ashton Gate.

'At one point I thought their back four were all wearing blond wigs because every time we put a ball into the box the lad with the blond hair was there to clear it,' said the City gaffer.

'He played very well.'

Barker himself - labelled man of the match in the national press - gave reaction to the away point.

'We found it hard to come off very pleased with that result only to find ourselves lower in the table, but we defended well and we have to take the positives from that.

'We know it's a tough league but if we can get a couple of wins it will give us some breathing space.'

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