Matt Taylor has a short-term challenge to avoid Exeter City relegation battle

Matt Taylor’s return to St James Park as the interim manager of Exeter City is all about getting results on the pitch.

The departure of former boss Gary Caldwell to Wigan Athletic prompted understandable unrest for the Grecians and eight games without victory in Sky Bet League One has left City with a concerning end to the campaign.

As it stands, Exeter have a six-point buffer above the relegation zone and the excellent performances through the winter months is evidence enough this squad has the quality to stay out of trouble, especially with striker Jayden Wareham in electric form.

Complacency, however, is a serious danger and Taylor has a short-term mission to get the results needed to steer clear of the bottom four.

Next up is a tricky trip to Barnsley, who are a couple of places above the Grecians in Sky Bet League One, but familiar surroundings for Taylor, who has a young family in the South Yorkshire area.

While those family commitments mean his return to City will be temporary, Taylor has the credentials to fulfil his latest Exeter mission but he must do it with a squad grappling with injuries.

Three points tomorrow would make life a lot easier!