Barnsley interim boss Martin Devaney says there is a “positive vibe” in the camp ahead of their play-off clash with Wanderers.

Devaney took charge of the 1-1 draw against Northampton on the final day after Neill Collins’ sacking, guiding the Tyles to a top-six finish after Lincoln and Blackpool lost against Portsmouth and Reading respectively.

However, there has been uncertainty off the pitch after reports claimed that Austrian coach Dominik Thalhammer had travelled to the UK to take charge at Oakwell, only to be denied a work permit.

Thalhammer has since been quoted to have said “the contracts were signed” by German-speaking outlets, labelling the situation a “disaster”.

Despite recent events, Devaney reckons the squad are in a good place as they prepare to face the Whites.

He told Yorkshire Post: “In last week’s game, there was a lot of pressure around it and ultimately we did what we wanted to do, that is get in the play-offs. It was an objective reached and completed.

“This week, there has been a real positive vibe among the players and that pressure has been let off a little bit.

“On the training pitch, it has been positive and a real feel-good factor. It is two cup games, that is how we have to approach it.

“The season is done and it is two big games and then (potentially), it is Wembley. It is down to all of us as a collective to try and get two positive results.”

The sides are certainly no strangers, having met seven times over the past couple of seasons – including at the same stage last year.

The Tykes ran out 2-1 aggregate winners 12 months ago, although the crucial second leg is at the Toughsheet Community Stadium this time around.

Devaney added: "We have had two tight games with them already (this season), we know what each other is about.

"We know their strengths and weaknesses, we will be organised. We have planned everything really well this week and it is about implementing that now on Friday."