Barnsley vs Millwall. Sky Bet League One.
Wembley.
Sunday 29 May 2016 16:32, UK
Barnsley are in good health while Millwall have a defensive worry ahead of Sunday's Sky Bet League One play-off final.
The Reds return to Wembley for the second time this season, having won the Johnstone's Paint Trophy in April, and caretaker boss Paul Heckingbottom has a fully-fit squad to choose from.
Heckingbottom, whose side thrashed Walsall 6-1 on aggregate to reach the showdown, has picked the same side for the last five matches and is likely to keep faith again, though James Bree, George Smith (both hamstring) and Marley Watkins are available.
"The Johnstone's Paint Trophy was massive - it brought people together at the club - but this is bigger for what's at stake," Heckingbottom said. "It's not a cup final, it's promotion, it's the chance to perform at the next level."
Millwall defender Byron Webster is the major doubt for Neil Harris after he limped off in the second leg of their tie against Bradford.
Webster suffered a hamstring strain and will be given as long as possible to prove his fitness, with club captain Tony Craig or youngster Sid Nelson ready to step in at centre-half if Webster does not make it.
Veteran Carlos Edwards will continue at right-back as Mahlon Romeo is still suspended.
"We deserve to be there and there's no doubt in the mentality of the group; we are going there to win," Harris said.
"Naturally there is a lot at stake and subconsciously that is always in your mind, but the players have to focus on the game and not the occasion. We've had a real focus about us for a period of time now and that won't change this weekend. We will be ready."
Match stats
Barnsley have reached two previous play-off finals, losing in 2000 against Ipswich in the second tier but beating Swansea on penalties in League One in 2006 after a 2-2 draw.
The Lions have reached two previous play-off finals, both in League One - they lost 3-2 to Scunthorpe in 2009 before defeating Swindon 1-0 a year later.
Millwall have lost in three of their four visits to Wembley, most recently playing there in April 2013 in the FA Cup semi-final against Wigan, where they lost 2-0.
Gregory has scored in each of his last three games (three goals), with the last two goals assisted by strike partner Morison.
Barnsley have won five of their last six contests against Millwall (L1), including the last three in a row.
Winnall has scored four goals in his last three appearances for Barnsley.
Ollie's prediction
Picking a winner here is tough. Barnsley are the most successful team this calendar year in the country while Millwall are building something special with a team that all are pulling in the same direction.
It's that spirit that makes me think Neil Harris and his boys will get the job done on Sunday. They started the season slowly but grew as the year went on and are peaking at just the right time.
The front two of Lee Gregory, whom I fancy to score first, and Steve Morison are among the best around as a duo. They've got one of their own in charge and a few of their own on the pitch. That makes a huge difference when you're looking for that extra bit of edge in a final.
OLLIE PREDICTS: 2-1 to Millwall in 90 minutes (Sky Bet odds 7/1)
Betting
Barnsley are Sky Bet's 13/8 favourites for the victory on Sunday, with Millwall 9/5 to win within 90 minutes while a draw and extra-time is priced at 21/10. Either side to produce a winner in additional time is a 6/1 chance while a penalty shoot-out is 15/4 with the Football League sponsor.
Sam Winnall heads the first goalscorer betting at 4/1 while Lee Gregory is considered the Lions' main threat at 9/2 to net first.
Watch the League One play-off final on Sky Sports 1 HD from 2pm on Sunday, May 29 - or follow with our live blog on skysports.com and the Sky Sports apps.
