Chester FC - Barnsley preview - Hobson's a choice for Chester

Posted Monday, December 15, 2014 by PA

Chester FC striker Craig Hobson is expected to return to the starting line-up for the FA Cup second-round replay against Barnsley.

Hobson was rested on Saturday and sat out the FA Trophy draw at AFC Telford, while his replacement, on-loan Barnsley striker Rhys Oates, does not have permission to face his parent club.

Skipper Matty Brown was forced out of the action at Telford after taking a knock to the knee but is expected to fit, while boss Steve Burr said one or two other players were carrying slight injuries.

Jon Worsnop will resume in goal wearing a face mask to protect two bones in his cheek that he fractured in the initial tie at Oakwell, which ended goalless.

Barnsley pair Peter Ramage and James Bailey are hoping to shake off injury in time to feature.

On-loan Crystal Palace defender Ramage missed Saturday's defeat at Walsall due to a thigh injury, while a foot problem has forced midfielder Bailey to miss the last two matches.

Striker Sam Winnall remains sidelined with a hamstring injury and on-loan Fulham winger Ryan Williams, who has returned to his parent club, is waiting to learn if he requires a hernia operation.

Winger Dale Jennings is expected to continue after recently overcoming a succession of injuries as Barnsley chase their first win in six matches.