Barnsley v Middlesbrough preview

Robins: Tough test

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Barnsley and Middlesbrough will be looking to establish some consistency this weekend following mixed starts.

The Tykes have taken four points from their opening three games, but have already conceded seven goals.

Boro also have a win, a draw and a defeat to their name and they will want to build on last week's hard-fought victory over Sheffield United.

Barnsley team news

Mark Robins could have summer signing Jim O'Brien available to make his Barnsley debut on Saturday.

The 22-year-old joined the Tykes from Motherwell in the summer but has yet to feature due to a troublesome thigh injury.

However, the midfielder has been in training this week and is pushing for a place in the squad.

Defender Luke Potter will miss out and could be sidelined for up to a month after undergoing minor knee surgery earlier this week.

Forward duo Liam Dickinson and Adam Hammill are also struggling with injuries and are doubtful.

"We have concerns with Liam and Adam, so we will have to see," Robins told the club's official website.

Boro team news

Middlesbrough boss Gordon Strachan's injury problems show no sign of abating ahead of their trip to Oakwell.

Summer signing Nicky Bailey has become the latest man to be added to the casualty list with a groin problem which means he is a doubt for the weekend encounter.

Skipper Gary O'Neil has already been ruled out with a troublesome knee injury, and with Kevin Thomson (fracture fibula), Willo Flood (dislocated kneecap) and Rhys Williams (pelvic injury) also missing, Strachan's midfield options have been drastically reduced.

In addition, Seb Hines (ankle), Jonathan Franks (herniated disc), and Tony McMahon (thigh) remain on the sidelines.

Boro will be hoping to improve their away form after a goalless draw at Leicester a fortnight ago and Wednesday's 3-1 Carling Cup defeat at Millwall.