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Lee Johnson wants a Barnsley hero against Everton

Barnsley manager Lee Johnson applauds the away fans after the final whistle in the Sky Bet League one match at Ashton Gate, Bristol.
Image: Lee Johnson: Barnsley boss prepares to take on Everton

Barnsley boss Lee Johnson is hoping one of his players takes the chance to "be a hero" against Everton.

The Tykes welcome Roberto Martinez's side to Oakwell on Wednesday night looking to cause an upset in front of the Sky Sports cameras.

With the resources at Everton's disposal that will be no easy task, but Johnson hopes the sense of occasion inspires his charges to reach new heights.

"The lads are hungry and committed," he said.

"The key message is to impose yourself on the game and demand more from yourself and your team-mates, but most importantly play with freedom and someone might just be a hero.

"We have to come out and be bold and brave, hopefully that will stand us in good stead to get a result and enhance the reputation of the players, and the club as a whole.

"There has been many a shock in cup football and I hope we can pull one off."

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Johnson believes the home fans also have a role to play in help put the Toffees on the back foot.

"We have to use the energy of the crowd to put their good players under pressure," he added.

"The fans want to see us go at all of them and show how we can impose our game on Everton whilst being concentrated enough to deal with their quality."

Barnsley have on-loan pair Ben Pearson and Joe Rothwell available for the visit of Everton in the Capital One Cup second round.

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Parent club Manchester United have made the duo available for cup duty, but the Tykes are unsure if Arsenal are willing to make the same decision on Dan Crowley.

Manager Lee Johnson has no fresh injuries to report after the 0-0 draw against Bradford and is likely to name his strongest side.

Ryan Williams remains unavailable with a groin tear.

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