Barnsley vs Middlesbrough preview - Williams set for Reds start

Posted Friday, January 02, 2015 by PA

Barnsley defender George Williams could make his first start for the club in the FA Cup third-round tie against Middlesbrough.

Williams, a recent signing from Worcester City, made his first appearance for the club off the bench in the Boxing Day defeat at Preston and with Joe Dudgeon (knee) and James Bree (unspecified) both still struggling, the 21-year-old may play a bigger role.

Midfielder James Bailey was forced out of the action at Preston due to a foot injury and remains doubtful, while striker Sam Winnall is continuing his rehabilitation following a hamstring problem.

Goalkeeper Ross Turnbull is back in contention following suspension and boss Danny Wilson must decide whether to recall him or retain Adam Davies.

Striker Patrick Bamford will be included in the Middlesbrough squad after extending his loan spell.

The Chelsea frontman will now remain at the Riverside Stadium until the end of the season after Jose Mourinho agreed to Aitor Karanka's request to retain his services.

The Spaniard has no fresh injury problems with utility man Rhys Williams having suffered no adverse reaction on his return to senior action against Nottingham Forest on Boxing Day following 11 months on the sidelines with a ruptured Achilles tendon.

Emilio Nsue is due to meet up with Equatorial Guinea ahead of the African Nations Cup, while fellow full-back Ryan Fredericks is close being available once again after recovering from a torn thigh muscle. Midfielder Muzzy Carayol is progressing rapidly after a lengthy absence with a knee problem, but defender Damia Abella, who has a similar injury, is still out.