Barnsley will assess the fitness of injured pair Fabio Jalo and Donovan Pines ahead of this weekend’s game against Stockport County, according to the Barnsley Chronicle.
26-year-old centre-back Pines has been out since sustaining a head injury against Stevenage earlier this month and has been assessed in line with concussion protocols since then but could make his return this weekend. Jalo, on the other hand, went off with a shoulder problem in the 2-1 win against Burton Albion last weekend, and may be fit to return without missing a game.
Barnsley face the Hatters on Saturday with both sides having made a strong start to the League One season. The Yorkshire side sit 3rd in the division behind Wrexham and Birmingham City, although Birmingham do have a game in hand. This weekend’s opponents sit just outside the play-offs in 7th place, having been top of the league at one stage though they are now winless in three.
Despite their good form, the Tykes will be keen for both Jalo and Pines to return as quickly as possible. While they sit high up the table, their defence has struggled with ten goals conceded already this campaign.
Pines in particular would be a key addition to the side, with the USA international able to provide some much-needed defensive stability. While Jalo is a more attacking option, he would allow new manager Darrell Clarke another option going forward and alongside Pines would only serve to boost the side’s chances of beating a strong Stockport team.
Writer’s View
Both players returning would be a boost for Barnsley, but it’s perhaps more important they get Pines back. Despite their good start they have been slightly shaky defensively so Pines’ experience would be much appreciated as they look to chase the top two, who already look to be streets ahead.
As for Jalo, he would perhaps be less of a key player if he returns but would be a welcome option from the bench. For his development, he’ll be hoping to return as he becomes a more influential member of the squad but given his injury is fairly new he may not be risked for a difficult encounter such as this weekend’s clash against Stockport.
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