Barnsley have been dealt a major blow just 48 hours before the big kick off this weekend after goalkeeper Ross Turnbull was all but ruled out of the Crawley match.
The 29 year old who returned to Oakwell this summer, a decade after enjoying two loan spells with the club, has played just 19 minutes of pre-season football after suffering a back injury.
The former Chelsea and Middlesbrough stopper has had an injection in the troublesome problem but his lack of pre-season action coupled with the fact he has not made a competitive appearance since the 28th January makes it very doubtful that he will make the team for Saturday’s curtain raiser, but will be fit for the Capital One Cup tie with Crewe on Tuesday.
22-year-old Adam Davies, another summer recruit is set for his competitive Football League debut after starting every friendly for the Reds since joining from Sheffield Wednesday.
Manager Danny Wilson told BBC Radio Sheffield:
“Ross is our only concern. He had an injection in his back. He’s had a bit of a spasm so we’re hoping that turns out positive and that he’s available for the weekend.”
Wilson confirmed today that midfielder James Bailey is ready to make his Barnsley debut following his arrival from Derby.
The 25 year old was withdrawn from the friendly draw with Sheffield Wednesday last weekend after feeling his groin in the warm-up but that was just a precaution.