Swindon vs Barnsley - Nathan Thompson pushing for Swindon starting spot

Posted Friday, January 29, 2016 by PA

Swindon captain Nathan Thompson could return to the starting line-up for his side's Sky Bet League One clash against Barnsley.

Thompson has been sidelined for much of the season with a groin injury, but he has featured in Swindon's last two matches after coming on as a substitute.

Manager Luke Williams, whose side are 15th in the table, may now hand the 25-year-old his first start since September.

Williams said: "I think Nathan is very close to being ready to start the game and we will have to see whether he can finish that game as well."

Barnsley defender Alfie Mawson is a major injury concern for head coach Lee Johnson, whose side is chasing a sixth straight league win.

Mawson was forced out of the midweek win at Bradford due to a groin problem and could miss out.

Defender Aidy White and winger Ryan Williams are also struggling with groin injuries and will play no part, while Adam Hammill remains sidelined with the knee injury sustained in last week's 6-1 thrashing of Rochdale.

Defender Lewin Nyatanga (knee) is closing in on a return after being sidelined since mid-December.