(Picture: Action Images via Reuters)
Barnsley manager Paul Heckingbottom says he has no problem with the way Sam Winnall celebrated his goal in Saturday South Yorkshire derby – but says his daughter does.
The former Tykes striker, on his first return to Oakwell, scored only his second goal for Sheffield Wednesday since joining them in January, and celebrated by running back to the half-way line and standing in-front of home fans.
It was a celebration that angered many, and only added to a fiery derby atmosphere, but while Heckingbottom was unmoved by his former player, his daughter was far less happy.
“I didn’t see the celebration, but it upset my little girl, she was fuming with him.” said the 39-year-old boss.
“If she ever sees him, I’ll unleash her on him.”
Winnall helped lead Barnsley to League One promotion last season, and adapted to life in the second tier brilliantly with 11 goals before Christmas, but received a frosty reception from the home fans who once adored him.
The game was even disrupted early on when a stuffed Peppa Pig toy was thrown at the 26-year-old front-man, and Heckingbottom believes it is that, and the loud booing, that probably lead to Winnall’s reaction.
“I’m guessing if he’s done it, he’s done it to get back at the fans who were booing him” said Heckingbottom.
“I noticed when Angus [MacDonald] scored, he made sure he jogged past Sam and gave him a little tap.
“I’ve got no problem with it. It’s all part of the game”.
