November 2008
Simon Davey is looking forward to the Reds trip to Upton Park.

Talking to the clubs website, Davey said: "It is always nice to have the opportunity to pit your wits against one of the biggest clubs in the county so it is one we can really look forward to. "Hopefully we can repeat last season's feat but it is a good draw and we can look forward to playing against one of the biggest teams in one of the biggest stadiums".

The Hammers may feel that 90 minutes against the Reds is just a mere formality, but current form favours Barnsley.

In the last 10 games, West Ham have only won 3 games and have conceded 14 goals (having scored just 9 times themselves). Barnsley on the other hand have only lost 3 times, having converted 17 goals over the same period.

On the West Ham United Blog, it states: "We have been drawn at home to Barnsley in the FA Cup third round. It's not Sheffield United as we had hoped but as openers go, we should be going through to the next round with this fairly easy tie".

Folks, over the next couple of weeks, whilst you are on your field trips to Liverpool and Chelsea, just take a moment to speak to those in the know. Barnsley FC may be a Championship club, but they have humbled bigger teams than you before!
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"We deserved something out of the game but if you don't put your chances away you don't get anything.

"We had chances you would expect us to put away, both Jon Macken in the first half and Stephen Foster at the end should score.

"We have been punished because of that. In this division, you can't afford to miss clear-cut chances away from home."

LINK: Barnsley Boss Simon Davey
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A first-half Joe Garner goal lifted Forest off the bottom of the table.

Garner ghosted between two Barnsley defenders to head home Nathan Tyson's left-wing cross from close range.

Jon Macken should have equalised but headed Jamal Campbell-Ryce's centre wide, while Lewis McGugan clipped the bar with a 25-yard shot for Forest.

In the final 10 minutes Barnsley twice went close, Stephen Foster headed against the bar and Anderson De Silva's 30-yard free-kick was clawed away.
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Sheffield United have a double standard for West Ham and Iain Hume By Ian Winwood 28/11/2008 (Daily Mirror)

Sheffield United were unusually blasé this week following the FA's decision not to take any further action regarding defender Chris Morgan's elbow smash to the head of Barnsley striker Iain Hume earlier this month.

Speaking on BBC Radio Sheffield, Blades assistant manager Sam Ellis said his club now consider the matter "closed."

Actually, make that almost closed, because Ellis couldn't resist one final parting shot.

"We didn't think there was anything more [to the incident]," he continued. "We think people have made a little bit more out of it than they should have."

Oh really, do you?

It's a fact of football journalism that interviewers don't ask those being interviewed to expand on their answers, so we don't know who Ellis thinks these "people" actually are.

But let's try and have a guess.

Could Mr Ellis be talking about Iain Hume himself? Leaving aside the question of intent, the facts of the incident are as follows: Chris Morgan planted his feet on the ground and swung his elbow into the Barnsley player's head with enough force to fracture his opponent's skull, leaving a scar the size of a breakfast bagel.

It's probably safe to assume that Iain Hume did not undergo this life-threatening misfortune so he could get himself on the telly.

Is it, then, the FA who have made more of this matter than they should? No it's not, because the FA have done nothing at all. Chris Morgan was awarded a yellow card for his foul (rather than a three month prison sentence) and that's how it's going to stay.

The Football Association would consider further punishment were the 'circumstances' more 'exceptional', but everyone knows that in the Championship fractured skulls are as common as throw-ins.

So it must be that Sheffield United are referring to Barnsley Football Club as the people who have made too much of the unpleasantness at Oakwell. It is, after all, Barnsley who are threatening to bring a civil action against Morgan and his club. United obviously think this is all wrong, and that the FA's ruling should be a final end to the matter.

This, by the way, is the same Sheffield United who refused the official ruling on the West Ham saga, and are using their own lawyers to try and grab £30 million. The double standard at work here is both hilarious and pitiful.

If Sheffield United can have their day in court, then why can't Barnsley? If an official ruling is the end of the matter in one thing, then why not in everything?

Why not? Because Sheffield United's talk of fairness only applies when it's fair to them, that's why. Anything else gets the elbow.
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On-loan Preston winger Simon Whaley admits he would be interested in a permanent move to Barnsley.

The 23-year-old, who joined on a month-long loan on 7th November, has been limited to just two appearances for the Tykes due to a foot infection.

But Whaley found the net in Monday's 3-2 victory over Burnley and he is now considering his future.

He told the club's official website: "Who knows what will happen at the end of the loan and I could end up here.

"It is a huge incentive to do well because I am playing for my future and the rest of my career."
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JAMIE Cureton has been tipped to make an instant impact on Barnsley's season.

The veteran striker will make his debut against Nottingham Forest today after arriving on a three-month loan deal from Norwich City.

Manager Simon Davey, who swooped after the loss of Iain Hume with a fractured skull, said: "We needed to ensure we have the firepower to maintain our excellent run and Jamie is a player I have admired for a long time. He is a proven goalscorer at this level and if he gets the opportunity then he will normally put it into the back of the net."

Barnsley have made a rapid climb up the Championship – winning six out of the last 10 league games. Another victory today against bottom-of-the-table Forest could lift the Tykes into the top half.

The loss of winger Martin Devaney for eight weeks with damaged ankle ligaments is a major setback, but the Tykes will be boosted by the return of Anderson De Silva after a three-match ban.

Although Forest are bottom after winning just one of their last 16 games, Davey is refusing to take anything for granted at the City Ground.

"Everyone will be looking at this and saying we are the favourites, but they are fighting for their lives and we know this is going to be tough," said Davey.

Forest manager Colin Calderwood has admitted his job is on the line with both Billy Davies and Sam Allardyce being touted as possible replacements.

"I don't want to relinquish it too easily," said Calderwood. "But I think we'll get a good response from the players and if we get a victory we're moving forward again."

Published Date: 29 November 2008
By Ian Appleyard

Nottingham Forest v Barnsley

Barnsley boss Simon Davey believes he has landed a proven goalscorer after signing Norwich striker Jamie Cureton as cover for Iain Hume.

Cureton, 33, has signed a three-month emergency loan deal at Oakwell and could make his debut against Nottingham Forest this weekend as Hume continues his recovery at home after recently fracturing his skull.

Davey said: "We have lost Iain (Hume) and our thoughts are with him, but we need to ensure we have the firepower to maintain our excellent run.

"Jamie is a player I've admired for a long time and has a fantastic goalscoring record. He's another piece in the jigsaw here.

"He's a goalscorer and is proven at this level and if he gets the opportunity then he will put it into the back of the net.

"We're on a fantastic run at the moment and now is the right time to strengthen. Having spoken with his representatives and to Jamie, we know that he wanted to come here. We wanted Jamie and we have signed him."
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Barnsley winger Martin Devaney has been ruled out of action for at least eight weeks after rupturing an ankle ligament.

The former Cheltenham winger sustained the injury 10 minutes into the midweek win over Burnley.

Devaney's loss is a big blow to Barnsley manager Simon Davey, who is already without summer signing Darren Moore for four weeks due to a groin injury.

Tykes striker Iain Hume has also been ruled out long-term as he is recovering from a fractured skull sustained in the local derby with Sheffield United at the beginning of the month.
Podcast: Episode 11

In this week's 'Coca-Cola' Football League podcast, Mark Clemmit is joined by Clarke Carlisle, John Motson, Simon Cox and Keith Hill.

Click here to listen to the 11th episode in full now

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Burnley's Clarke Carlisle co-hosts this week's show and gives Clem a run for a money with his insight and preparation.

John Motson reflects on the changing face of football and his passion for Barnet and The Football League.

Swindon Town's Simon Cox talks about his recent goal scoring form and Rochdale's Keith Hill tells us about the rigours of a long midweek away game.

If you're registered with iTunes, you can set up a weekly subscription by clicking here.

Alternatively, if you're unfamiliar with how to listen to podcasts you can read a helpful guide by clicking here.

Between now and the end of the season the Coca-Cola Football League Podcast will feature all 72 League clubs, so make sure you listen to the show this week and every week.
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Reds boss Simon Davey could hand a debut to new signing Jamie Cureton at Nottingham Forest on Saturday. Davey beat the transfer deadline for loan signings to bring in the 33-year-old striker on a three-month loan from Championship rivals Norwich.
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The threat of legal proceedings on behalf of fractured skull victim Iain Hume looms large – after the Football Association’s decision not to take further action against Sheffield United captain Chris Morgan left Barnsley FC seething. The Reds may now take Morgan and Sheffield United to a civil court.
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Barnsley manager Simon Davey let rip in Thursday afternoon's press conference over the Iain Hume affair. The Reds boss launched an amazing tirade at the FA following their decision not to upgrade Chris Morgan's yellow card to a red.
Earlier in the month, I took an extremely biased view of the Reds recent form, in creating the Yorkshire Form League based on their run of five games up to the posting on Tuesday 4th November.

Courtesy of OnthePontyEnd's friends at Football Anorak, I have created the latest table based on the last 10 games, the maximum period that can be set.

At the time, the article was criticised for creating a false view. In response, TOUGH, after all this is a site dedicated to Barnsley FC. Obviously we're Pro-Barnsley, passionate about Tarn and hugely fanatic about The Reds !! But in the name of "fairness", see the latest results below.


Ignoring the "Blunt - Dee Dars" - who can't be respected for their sportsmanship, Barnsley have kept their consistent run going. Averaging 1.9 points per game - that's automatic promotion form!

Good luck this Saturday lads. Another nail in Forest's coffin? Let's hope we can get a result we deserve down at the City Ground and keep Humey smiling whilst he recuperates.

In the interests of balance, Donny probably get their basement position as a result of the 6 points we took of them. But as I said before - TOUGH!!


Taken from today's Sun

BARNSLEY'S Iain Hume was today discharged from hospital as his club accused the FA of “big-club bias."

The authorities confirmed yesterday they will not punish Sheffield United's Chris Morgan for the horror challenge which left Hume, 25, with a fractured skull.

The striker spent two further nights in hospital after being readmitted on Monday with an infection but he is now continuing his recovery at home.

Barnsley are considering legal action and claimed the FA would have acted if a more illustrious player had been the victim.

Tykes Simon Davey said: “I am angry and disappointed.

"I think that they’ve let down Iain Hume badly and let down Barnsley Football Club.

“I think that had it been Cristiano Ronaldo, Alex Ferguson and Manchester United, the decision they gave would have been different.”

Barnsley owner Patrick Cryne added: “The two people who should have been punished have got away with it.

"Chris Morgan is still playing football and Andy D’Urso is still refereeing.

“It has not ended for Iain Hume, he has suffered a serious injury which is career-threatening and was life-threatening.

“He and his advisers need to decide their next action. Barnsley Football Club has supported Iain throughout this and will continue to do so.”
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Barnsley are prepared to launch legal action against Sheffield United defender Chris Morgan following his clash with Iain Hume.

The Blades centre-half was involved in a nasty collision with the Tykes striker during a Championship contest at Oakwell on 8th November.

The incident left Hume with a fractured skull, putting his life and professional career in danger.

However, the Football Association cleared Morgan of any wrongdoing on Tuesday and will not be disciplining the defender further.

Barnsley have been left aghast by the FA's refusal to deem Morgan's behaviour as violent and have revealed that they will now be investigating legal proceedings outside of football circles.

Disappointed
"Barnsley Football club is extremely disappointed and concerned that the FA has failed to take any action regarding the violent conduct of Chris Morgan which left Iain Hume requiring emergency hospital treatment for a fractured skull and bleeding to the brain," read a statement on the club's official website.

"The decision by the FA to disconnect a violent act from its consequences runs contrary to the principles of civil and criminal law.

"It reflects badly on football that the only action which the FA has thought fit was to charge Barnsley Football Club's manager (Simon Davey) with misconduct in relation to alleged verbal abuse towards a match official whilst violent conduct has gone unpunished.

"The FA's failure to act has let Iain Hume down badly and the only option now remaining is for recourse outside of the normal football processes."
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From Paul Fletcher Blog BBC

Barnsley defender Darren Moore has been promoted to the Premier League four times in his career - twice with West Brom and once with both Bradford and Derby.

I can't think of anybody who has gone up more often to the top flight - certainly not in recent times - so when he starts talking about what it takes for a team to reach the supposed Promised Land it probably makes sense to listen.

And with this in mind, there is one undoubted buzz word that crops up time and again during a conversation with the giant defender - consistency. For example, Moore is adamant that the current Barnsley squad is as good as most of the teams he has been promoted with - but talk is cheap.

"It is about showing that consistently and doing the right things at the right time," Moore told me.

And if you think that Big Dave, as he was known at West Brom, has lost it by suggesting the Tykes, currently 14th in the Championship, are in with a shout then perhaps you should think again.

"Anything is possible in the Championship," argues Moore. "I say that because this time last year Hull were in a similar position to where Barnsley are at the moment and look where they are now."

Moore believes that his point applies to most clubs in the Championship - a third of the season might have come and gone but very few sides are totally out of the running. Barnsley, for example, might be nestled in mid-table but prior to Tuesday evening's round of fixtures they were only four points off the play-off zone. Teams that guard against thinking too far ahead, put a run of form together and feed off the self-belief that good results generate are in with a chance.

Barnsley lost five of their opening six Championship fixtures and twice propped up the table.

Rumours started to circulate about the future of manager Simon Davey.

But Moore, who joined Barnsley from Derby in the summer, has seen it all before and impressed on his team-mates that there was no need to panic. He told them that it often takes 10 games or so for the new signings to slot in to the team and adjust to the style of play that the manager wants both home and away.

That period has passed now and Barnsley are on a run of form that has seen them win three and draw one of their last five games. Moore is now looking for the team to see how many points they can pick up before the busy Christmas period.

If Barnsley are still in good shape he will then impress upon his team-mates how important it is for them to hold their form - that word consistency might crop up again - until Easter. By that stage the season has reached the run-in and it is all about holding your nerve until the finish line.

But in a division where fortunes rise and fall so spectacularly how does a manager ensure his team are playing to their potential?

"All of the managers I have been promoted with have been different and there is no single right way," Moore told me. "But one thing that was evident was the discipline side of things in terms of every player knowing their jobs within the team."

Paul Jewell (Bradford 1999), Gary Megson (West Brom 2002 and 2004) and Billy Davies (Derby County 2007) are the men that have managed Moore to promotion. And the Birmingham-born defender reckons that only second time around at the Baggies was he a part of a team that had actually been expected to go up.

Moore thinks his current manager is every bit as good as those he has worked with in the past. Davey, in charge at Oakwell since November 2006, has impressed Moore with his enthusiasm, focus and methods.

The defender points to a training session they use at Barnsley as a good example of Davey's methods. It starts as a keep-ball routine with two-to-three players on each team. This then builds to five or six per side and ends in an eight versus eight game, often followed by Davey working through a phase of play. Moore likes the progression, the way a simple idea is expanded until it involves working on something that will be taken into a real game.

Moore comes across in conversation as someone who loves being a professional footballer, maintaining that he is living a dream that he has had ever since watching Cyril Regis, Laurie Cunningham and Brendon Batson play for West Brom in the late 1970s.

Yet there is no ego involved in what Moore has achieved as a footballer. Moore, a devout Christian, spends a large amount of his spare time working with those less fortunate than himself. His charity Faith and Football runs mini-leagues in inner cities and poor suburbs. When I spoke to Moore he was driving down to Birmingham so he could attend a night of matches. "It uses football as a vehicle to get kids from different schools and areas together and build relationships," he said.

Every year he undertakes a major fund-raising event to raise money for his charity. In 2005 he walked along the Great Wall of China along with Linvoy Primus, another player heavily involved in Faith and Football. Moore has also been to India, Egypt and Mexico and undertaken a charity bike ride. In February he will sit down and work out what he will do next summer.

In addition to playing for Barnsley and his charity work, Moore is also on the Board of Professional Footballers' Association Members and a committed family man. It makes me wonder how he manages to squeeze so much into one day and Moore himself admits it is "pretty full on".

Yet Davey recently described him as the most focused player he has worked with. And when it comes to working your way up the Championship table there can be few better players to have on your side than a man looking for his fifth promotion.
Iain Hume has been readmitted to hospital following complications.

The Canada international, 25, suffered the horrific injury after being caught by the elbow of Chris Morgan, the Sheffield United captain, in a Coca-Cola Championship match at Oakwell on November 8.

Hume was rushed to hospital for an emergency operation and spent several days in a high dependency unit at the Salford Royal Hope Hospital, before being allowed home eight days ago.

Only last week Hume, who was expected to be sidelined for the remainder of the season, had said that he was feeling much better and on the road to recovery.

But Barnsley owner Patrick Cryne told The Sun: “Iain complained of feeling unwell and started vomiting. His family sought medical advice and decided the best course of action was for Iain to go back into hospital as a precaution.”
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Barnsley survived a late fightback to beat high-flying Burnley.

Jonathan Macken got the Reds off to the perfect start when he raced on to Robert Kozluk's pass to slot home (18) before Jamal Campbell-Ryce's shot was deflected in by Simon Whaley (48).

Diego Leon then converted Campbell- Ryce's pull-back (51) but Martin Paterson grabbed a quickfire double (69, 73) to set up a tense finish.
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Sean St Ledger produced a moment of magic to shatter Barnsley and ensure Alan Irvine's one-year anniversary in charge at Preston was a victorious one.

Irvine saw his side snatch all three points in the Coca-Cola Championship clash two minutes from time as St Ledger marched up the centre of midfield before unleashing an unstoppable drive into the top corner.

The sucker punch was harsh on Barnsley who had cancelled out Richard Chaplow's opener in the first half when Jamal Campbell-Ryce drilled in a shot from the edge of the area.

"I think we deserved a lot more than what we got," said Barnsley manager Simon Davey. "We have been done by a deflected goal and possibly a dubious goal in the first half, which I think was a free-kick.

"The players wore the shirt with pride. I am disappointed for them.

"But we are on the way up. You can see the way we played that we are improving week on week.

"There's a long way to go in this season but if we continue to play like that we will win more than we lose.

"I didn't see the second Preston goal coming. You don't expect a centre-back to come and get a deflected goal near the end."

Preston were unchanged from the side that beat Blackpool 3-1 last Sunday.

Miguel Mostto was handed his first start of the season for Barnsley after he came off the bench to score in the 2-1 win over Watford last weekend, while Darren Moore was replaced by Bobby Hassell in defence.

The visitors, who came into the match having taken 13 points from the last 18, started promisingly with Campbell-Ryce looking to make early inroads down the left wing.

But it was Billy Jones who almost created the first chance of the match for Preston, when, after a mazy run down the right he misplaced a cross, as the unmarked Chris Brown waited in the centre.

Diego Leon, who netted in the corresponding fixture last season, looked to orchestrate play from the centre of midfield and he found former Preston favourite Jon Macken on the edge of the area but his turn and shot was saved by goalkeeper Andy Lonergan.

Neil Mellor tested Heinz Muller in the 18th minute, when his 20-yard shot was nervously fumbled by the Tykes stopper.

Three minutes later North End took the lead thanks to persistent chasing from Mellor.

As Hugo Colace looked to shepherd the ball out of play the former Liverpool striker hustled the Argentinian to keep the ball in play before pulling it back to Chaplow for an easy close-range tap in.

But Barnsley were level 12 minutes later when Campbell-Ryce drilled a shot into the bottom corner after he was gifted too much time and space on the edge of the area.

The second half began much the same as the first with Preston doing more of the pressing and Chaplow will feel he should have done better with a shot which was saved by Muller.

Barnsley, however, looked ever dangerous at the other end with Campbell-Ryce at the heart of their good work.

And the Jamaican, playing a free role in midfield, almost gave Barnsley the lead with a shot which was turned onto the post by Lonergan.

Mostto should have done better with a shot from inside the area, while the lively Mellor forced Muller into a good save moments later.

Chris Sedgwick was next to be denied by the visitors as his sweetly struck volley was cleared off the line by Rob Kozluk.

Just as the game looked to be heading for a draw St Ledger was given an invitation to stride forward before smashing the ball past Muller.
Barnsley forward Iain Hume has left hospital after undergoing surgery.

Hume had his skull fractured by an elbow from Sheffield United's Chris Morgan during the south Yorkshire derby on November 8.

Hume, who required emergency surgery and also suffered internal bleeding, is not expected to play again this season.

The Canadian international showed off his wounds in a television interview today.



The 25-year-old told Sky Sports News: 'I'm not too bad. I am home and I get to spend time with my family, so it is just good to be out of hospital and to be on the path to getting fit again.

'It is a serious injury but I am well and on the road to recovery. I look forward to getting back.'

Hume has to return to hospital for a reassessment in eight weeks' time.
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Preston North End boss Alan Irvine is all too aware of the threat posed by Saturday's opposition Barnsley ahead of the tie at Deepdale.
The Scot, exactly a year into his reign in charge of the Lilywhites, spoke of how the clash with the Yorkshire side is not just a potential 'banana skin'.

He said: "In the form guide, Barnsley are actually third in the Championship, only behind Wolves and Reading."

The Tykes have taken 13 points from a possible 18 and will be looking to build on a solid run of results ahead of the trip to Lancashire.

Irvine added: "Barnsley actually have the same amount of points from the last six games as Reading.

"They're going very well but I dont think people recognise that because of where they are in the table.

"They're in very good form and in its own right, it's a very tough game for us. They're a good side, playing some good football."
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Barnsley striker Iain Hume has told BBC Radio Sheffield that he wants to continue playing football as he recovers from a fractured skull.

The Canada international needed emergency surgery following a clash with Sheffield United's Chris Morgan on 8 November.

Speaking for the first time since the incident Hume said: "I'm happy that I am out of hospital and I will be back.

"Nothing will stop me from playing, it's my life," he added.

Hume recalled the moment he was rushed to hospital: "I had a CT scan and fortunately for me they spotted the bleed quickly and got me sorted out.

"It's upsetting to know that it was life threatening but the surgeons did a terrific job and I'm so grateful for what they have done for me."

Hume has received messages of goodwill from thousands of fans and Chelsea keeper Petr Cech has offered his support after suffering a similar injury.
"Petr knows what it's like to have a serious head injury so it was nice for him to wish me well.

"He's the best keeper in the world and managed to carry on playing even if he has had to do it wearing protective headgear. If I have to do the same then I'll do it," Hume added.

Hume hopes to return to Oakwell early next month when he plans to watch the team play Reading.
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BARNSLEY manager Simon Davey will be hoping that Jamal Campbell-Ryce reports back fit and well – and in good time for tomorrow’s game at Preston – after playing for Jamaica in Wednesday’s World Cup qualifier against Canada in front of 38,000 fans in Kingston’s National Stadium.

Campbell-Ryce jetted out to the Caribbean earlier this week, and has a long flight back to England, after representing the Reggae Boyz in a vital qualifying game. Campbell-Ryce again played well as Jamaica cruised to a 3-0 success, but it was not enough to qualify for the next stage. They were pipped on goal difference by second-in-the-table Mexico, who lost 1-0 to group winners Honduras on the same night.

The Reds ace would have been on the opposite side to fellow Oakwell man Iain Hume in the international. Hume would have been included in the Canadian squad but is now facing a long road back from serious injury.
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BARNSLEY boss Simon Davey is looking for some fringe benefits from his Championship squad. 

The Reds are without a number of key players through injury and suspension but Davey believes that the fringe players in his first team pool can emulate the England stars who secured a glorious win in Germany this week. The national side were without many of their star names but those who came into the starting line-up grasped their opportunity with both hands. Davey reckons the same can apply to his squad – with players who are not guaranteed starters stepping up to the plate in Barnsley’s two roses fixtures in the space of three days.

The Reds cross the Pennines tomorrow to take on Davey’s old club Preston at Deepdale – before entertaining fellow Lancastrians Burnley live on Sky on Monday night.
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BARNSLEY FC and their injured star Iain Hume were last night waiting for the Football Association to stop dragging their heels and make their decision over the Chris Morgan elbow saga. 
The Reds want Morgan’s yellow card upgraded to a red, and the player charged with violent conduct.

They submitted their dossier of detailed evidence to the FA by the requested time of 4pm on Monday. However, despite being initially told that the football authorities might make their decision known on Wednesday – the day after fractured skull victim Hume was released from hospital and allowed home – Oakwell owner Patrick Cryne told the Chronicle on Thursday lunchtime that the club were still waiting for an answer.
Episode 10:

In this week's 'Coca-Cola' Football League podcast, Mark Clemmit is joined by Paul Sturrock, Tom Williams, Jay DeMerit, Wayne Jones and James Mason.

LISTEN NOW

Click here to listen to the tenth episode in full now

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Plymouth Argyle manager Paul Sturrock is the first up on this week's show, talking to Mark Clemit about his roofer-turned-goalscoring-hero Craig Noone, his lucky green wellies and his life with Parkinson's Disease.

Peterborough's Tom Williams reviews the chances of his fiancé, Nicola McLean, winning I'm A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here.

Wayne Jones, the bass player for Bristol-based band The Chemists, chats about all things Rovers.

Watford's American skipper Jay DeMerit tells us how he climbed the professional ranks in England and what his plans for the future are and Bradford City fan James Mason explains how he's won a pie for every day of the year.

If you're registered with iTunes, you can set up a weekly subscription by clicking here.

Alternatively, if you're unfamiliar with how to listen to podcasts you can read a helpful guide by clicking here.

Between now and the end of the season the Coca-Cola Football League Podcast will feature all 72 League clubs, so make sure you listen to the show this week and every week.
Michael Coulson could be called back into the Barnsley first team squad as they face two games in three days.

Oakwell chief Simon Davey is likely to find his playing resources at full stretch for the visit to Preston on Saturday and Monday night's home fixture with Burnley.

Midfielder Anderson de Silva is banned from both and Miguel Mostto, Martin Devaney and Mounir El Haimur have all missed training injured. Darren Moore has been ruled unfit and Iain Hume continues his recuperation from a fractured skull at home.

Simon Whaley, who is on loan from Preston, cannot play against Preston.
Davey and his coaching staff took the player 10-pin bowling yesterday as break from routine ahead of the hectic weekend.
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IAIN HUME has thanked the thousands of Barnsley fans for their support he has received this week after sustaining a fractured skull in a clash with Sheffield United's Chris Morgan.

Hume was hospitalised after the incident, but said this week: "I would like to thank everyone for so many cards, e-mails and messages of support through what has been a very difficult week both for my family and me.

"The support of the Barnsley fans has been overwhelming and it has meant so much to us."
A week has passed since the refereeing debacle against the 'Dee Dars'. According to many reports, Iain Hume is 'back-on his feet' and out of any danger, but is bearing the scars.

The Reds triumph over Watford. Mostto on target, Odejayi woefully not. Fozzie takes the armband finally from the departed Howard and scores the winner.

Much has been covered online, on TV, Radio and within the press over the last week concerning BFC. Fortunately, one gem appears to be hidden from the popular media at the moment. I'm talking about the one man who is keeping it ticking from all sides of the pitch, Jamal Campbell Ryce.

Opposing managers must be familiar with his performances over the last 12 months, but very few are capable of containing this lad. JCR is consistently beating teams on his own and producing goals too. (Remember Donny!)

Is there any doubt, that with Jamal in the side, we are always capable of making something happen? Just look at the run we have had since he came back from injury.

With a new contract signed, the club are committed to keeping him here for the 'long term'. Quietly, for the time being, his stock is rising.
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Two goals in two second-half minutes saw Barnsley condemn Watford to defeat.

The Tykes could have been 2-0 up after 20 minutes but it was Watford who went ahead as Jobi McAnuff's cross was converted by Tommy Smith six yards out.

Smith fired over before substitute Miguel Mostto levelled with a clinical finish from just inside the area.

Skipper Stephen Foster hit the winner, pouncing on a loose ball for his first goal of the season, while Tykes keeper Heinz Muller made a key save late on.

Barnsley Manager Simon Davey:

"It's been a hard, trying week for everyone at the club and it's fitting that we won.

"We had plenty of chances and I think we deserved it.

"It's been a long road for Miguel because he's taken time to adjust but he's stuck to his task, worked hard in training and taken his goal well."

BBC Audio Link: Simon Davey
Petr Cech has issued a message of best wishes and support for Barnsley striker Iain Hume who suffered a fractured skull last weekend in a game against Sheffield United.

Hume as since undergone a similar operation to the one carried out on Cech following his collision with Reading's Stephen Hunt two years ago.

The message reads:

'I would like to wish Iain well on his recovery. I went through a similar experience and if he needs any advice or help at any stage I'm here to offer it.

'What I experienced is that I had to forget about the time it took to recover from the injury. I was not looking at the time, whether it was six months or six weeks.

'Whatever it took I knew that every day I would have to set up a little target, because every day I wanted to do better than the previous day.

'Sometimes it was hard, because every day I felt differently, but I made the small goals to achieve the big ones, which was to return to the pitch.

'Basically, the recovery is like a football game. You need to be careful and concentrate on everything you do, every second, because I think this is the key for the recovery. There will be ups and downs, but Iain has been a professional football player for a long time, and he's got a lot of experience. If he approaches the recovery with the same attitude he would a match he will reach his target.

'Even though sometimes it's really hard to take, because everyone is different and everyone takes to it differently, you really need to listen to your body. When the body told me to stop I knew there was no point doing my programme when I knew it wouldn't be doing any good. So it's important to listen to the body.

'So I wish him well and I am ready to help or offer further advice if he needs it.'
SIMON DAVEY says Barnsley are desperate to "win it for Iain" against Watford at Oakwell.

The Reds' chief insisted his players would need no extra incentive following the horrific injury suffered by £1.2m striker Iain Hume during last week's match against Sheffield United.

Hume was left hospitalised with a fractured skull following a challenge by United captain Chris Morgan, whose right elbow caught him a sickening blow.

The incident is the subject of an ongoing Football Association investigation and could result in legal action, with Barnsley's lawyers meeting Hume's representatives on Monday to discuss developments.

Davey said it was important his team put the episode to the back of their minds and focus on lifting the spirits of their stricken colleague in the best possible way – by claiming three points.

"Everyone will be desperate to win it for Iain, and that is what the lads will be concentrating on," said Davey.

"At the end of the day, the players are professional – they know that people get injured, that people get suspended, that people get transferred, and that it's a fact of life.

"I've got a group of players who will die for the cause week-in, week-out – not just if someone suffers a terrible injury.

"At the same time, when something like this does happen, it can certainly galvanise the group and act as a catalyst for a better level of performance."

Davey has challenged his men to embark on another good run, with Barnsley having won three and drawn one of their four games before the 2-1 defeat to their South Yorkshire rivals.

"Probably everyone's forgotten about what we did prior to last Saturday, which is understandable when you get the sort of incident that took place but now we need to string another good run together," he added.

"We had a fantastic October and started November with a good win and I've been really pleased with the way the players have applied themselves."
Barnsley manager Simon Davey has been charged with improper conduct by the FA after Saturday's heated clash with Sheffield United.

Davey was sent to the stands late in the match after protesting at the award of a second-half penalty to the Blades.

He has until November 28 to respond to the charge.

An FA statement said: "The charge relates to Davey's conduct towards the assistant referee late in the second half.

"Davey was asked to leave the technical area after protesting against the award of a penalty to Sheffield United."

The match was overshadowed by an incident in the first half which left Tykes forward Iain Hume with a fractured skull after a clash with Chris Morgan, while both sides had a man sent off in the Blades' 2-1 victory
Barnsley defender Stephen Foster has been announced as the club's new captain.

The Reds have not named an official team captain since the departure of former skipper Brian Howard to Sheffield United last month.

"I am absolutely delighted," Foster told the club's official website.

"That is probably the best way to describe how I am feeling at the way I am feeling at the moment after being handed the armband on a full-time basis.

"I do not think it will make me play any differently but I am more of a talker than a shouter on the pitch anyway"
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'Let's go out and win it for Iain'
BARNSLEY’S players and management will do ‘everything in their power’ to beat Watford at Oakwell tomorrow – for their injured colleague Iain Hume. The Reds’ joint-top scorer faces at least six months on the sidelines after suffering a fractured skull – and undergoing an emergency operation – following a much-publicised clash with Sheffield United captain Chris Morgan last Saturday. “Iain is very popular here. We will go out on Saturday and try and get three points against Watford for Iain," said boss Simon Davey

Oakwell Club consider legal action over horror injury
BARNSLEY FC are strongly considering taking legal action over the elbow-led incident that resulted in Iain Hume needing an emergency operation for a fractured skull and internal bleeding. The Oakwell Club’s lawyers will meet with Hume’s representatives on Monday to discuss legal moves. The decision will ultimately rest with the player but the fall-out from Hume’s clash with Sheffield United skipper Chris Morgan could yet end up in the civil courts.

Coulson on comeback trail
BARNSLEY striker Michael Coulson made a goalscoring return to action in a reserve fixture at Grimsby Town on Wednesday. Coulson, back after suffering a serious cruciate knee injury at the end of April, got on the scoresheet in his 70-minute workout, but the Reds’ second string, which also featured Jacob Butterfield, Simon Heslop, who had been on loan at the Mariners, and Reuben Noble-Lazarus, went down 4-1. The young Barnsley team was: Letheren, Tienan, Reffin, Branson, Grundy, Heslop, Hibbert, Butterfield, Coulson, Noble-Lazarus, Taylor.

Video evidence going to FA
BARNSLEY FC have been in the process of compiling video evidence of Sheffield United’s elbow tactics last Saturday – and the indecisiveness of referee Andy D’Urso – to send to the Football Association, as part of their complaint over the injury to striker Iain Hume.
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Barnsley manager Simon Davey admits he would like to sign Preston midfielder Simon Whaley on a permanent basis.

Whaley, 23, made his Tykes debut against Sheffield United last weekend after agreeing a one-month emergency loan.

Now Davey is keen tie up a permanent deal with his former club for the promising winger.

The Tykes boss told the Lancashire Evening Post: "Simon is a player I've admired for some time and he has bags of potential.

"At the moment we are just having a look at him and he is having a look at us. He did well in his first game, played the whole match and his possession play was good.

"We would definitely like to take if further if we can."
Episode 9:

In this week's 'Coca-Cola' Football League podcast, Mark Clemmit is joined by Kenny Jackett, John Ryan and Gavin Strachan, as well as last month's pick of the Football League in Rob Hulse, Ricky Lambert and Jamie Ward.

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Click here to listen to the ninth episode in full now

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The New Den was the destination for this week's 'Coca-Cola' Football League podcast.

Millwall manager Kenny Jackett talks about the challenges he faces as the Lions' boss and looks at the fortunes of his previous employers.

Doncaster Chairman John Ryan talks about the tough task of competing in the Championship both on and off the pitch, while budding journalist Gavin Strachan looks at life after football and the distraction his writing provides from his injury ridden time at Notts County.

Clem also speaks to Powerade Players of the Month, Derby County's Rob Hulse, Bristol Rovers Ricky Lambert and Chesterfield's Jamie Ward, who all reflect on their respective months at Championship, League 1 and League 2 level.

If you're registered with iTunes, you can set up a weekly subscription by clicking here.

Alternatively, if you're unfamiliar with how to listen to podcasts you can read a helpful guide by clicking here.

Between now and the end of the season the Coca-Cola Football League Podcast will feature all 72 League clubs, so make sure you listen to the show this week and every week.
Reds striker Michael Coulson will make his return to action in the reserves at Grimsby Town tomorrow.

Barnsley physio Matt Konopinski told the club's site: "Michael is in the reserves tomorrow which is great news. Hopefully he will come through it fine and notch a goal.

"He is fit and there is nothing to worry about. If he was not ready then he would not play".
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Simon Davey has outlined the club's position after Iain Hume suffered a 'life-threatening' injury on Saturday

"The club may be seeking legal advice on the matter," manager Simon Davey told BBC Radio Sheffield after Hume fractured his skull in a challenge with Chris Morgan of Sheffield United.

"We've ended up with a life-threatening injury and a player in a hospital bed."

He added on the official club website: "The decision not to show a red card was an absolute disgrace.

"Iain is now in hospital with a fractured skull because of that challenge that seemingly warranted only a yellow card."
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Barnsley manager Simon Davey has accused referee Andy D'Urso of failing to protect Iain Hume, who fractured his skull in Saturday's explosive derby with Sheffield United

Canada international Hume has undergone emergency surgery and is being monitored in a hospital high dependency unit following a challenge from Blades skipper Chris Morgan during the visitors' 2-1 win at Oakwell.

Davey said: "Iain received no protection whatsoever from the referee on Saturday despite him telling Andy D'Urso about repeated use of the elbow and it sickens me just thinking about it. He could have died.

"Our thoughts are with Iain at this time and we all wish him a very speedy recovery from what is a horrendous injury.

"There is no timescale regarding when he will be fit enough to return, but he is in a stable condition.

"The decision not to show a red card was an absolute disgrace."

Davey added: "Both (assistant manager) Ryan (Kidd) and I expressed our concerns at the treatment Iain had received through elbow challenges at half-time, but the referee made light of the situation and thought we were making too much of an issue that he had dealt with by showing only a yellow card.

"Iain is now in hospital with a fractured skull because of that challenge that seemingly warranted only a yellow card from Andy D'Urso.

"It beggars belief that you send a manager to the stand when a referee's assistant makes a decision from 70 yards down the pitch; yet a challenge like this seen from 15 yards away, which ends with Iain suffering a fractured skull, goes virtually unpunished."

The Blades have responded to news of Hume's injury in an official club statement, which read: "Sheffield United are saddened and concerned to hear that Barnsley striker Iain Hume is being monitored in a high dependency unit following last Saturday's fixture and we wish him a speedy and full recovery."
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Barnsley 1 Sheff Utd 2

Simon Davey was seething with referee Andy D'Urso after being sent to the stands in an explosive South Yorkshire derby in which two players were sent off.

Kayode Odejayi ensured a grandstand finale by heading home with two minutes remaining.

But Davey was scathing in his criticism of D'Urso, who belatedly consulted his assistant before deciding to award the Blades a controversial 85th-minute penalty after Barnsley defender Rob Kozluk had appeared to handle.

Davey said: "Obviously he said he didn't see it, but he didn't see Darren Moore get pulled down in the box either.

"That's what happens when you get Premier League referees coming down into the Championship. It's all about them."

Blades defender Ugo Ehiogu and Barnsley midfielder Anderson De Silva were both sent off in the first period for a spiteful tussle that ended with both players attempting to headbutt the other.

Davey said he needed to see a video of the incident which led to the double dismissal, but could not understand the referee's penalty decision.

Davey added: "I've never experienced that before. It's usually the linesman working in that half of the field (who gets consulted), that's why I found it really peculiar because he was actually behind me when he gave the decision.

"There was a bit of noise from the opposite bench and all of a sudden he made a decision. The referee was playing on. The referee was only 10 or 15 yards away. Say no more."

Davey praised his players, who he described as "magnificent" in an enthralling local derby.

He said: "I'm disappointed with the result, but the way the lads performed today, I thought they were magnificent throughout the 90 minutes.

"They battled away, it was always going to be a battle. Sheffield United are a physical side and the lads stood up to the challenge.

"But for me, how can a linesman give penalty when he's standing behind me and the referee's 15 yards away?

"I got a little upset over that and rightly so."
Barnsley have secured the services of Preston winger Simon Whaley on loan.

The out-of-favour 23-year-old has moved to Oakwell for an initial one-month spell.

Tykes boss Simon Davey is confident he will quickly adapt to his new surroundings.

He told the club's official website: "Simon is someone we have monitored and admired for a while.

"(First-team coach) Kelham (O'Hanlon) and (assistant manager) Ryan (Kidd) both spent time with him at Bury before his move to Preston and spoke very, very highly of him."

"An opportunity like this was too good to pass up when we knew he was available.

"Simon is a player who can operate on both wings and can slot in perfectly to any of the systems we are playing at this moment in time."
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Not getting carried away
BARNSLEY boss Simon Davey says it is up to him to keep his players focused, and their feet on the ground, after a terrific turnaround in results. Said Davey: "We have done well in the last few weeks but there is no way we are going to get carried away. "We did not panic when were were having a bad run, and we will not be over-confident and complacent while we are chalking up good results. "As a club and staff, we still have a lot of work to do and we still have not scored enough goals. We want to improve on that and hopefully we will continue our good run with three points against Sheffield United."

Kozzie hopes to have laugh on pal Morgan
ROB Kozluk will be trying his best to shut out Sheffield United tomorrow – and help the Reds register a fourth local derby triumph this season. For ex-Blade Kozluk it is a match-up that brings back happy memories of his lengthy stay at Bramall Lane. But although ‘Kozzie’ hopes that United do well this term, he is determined to try and take six points off his old team – and have the laugh on big pal Chris Morgan.

Macken back on the goal trail
BARNSLEY striker Jon Macken is the first to admit he didn’t have his shooting boots on at the start of this season. But now ‘Super Jon’, as the Reds’ fans hailed him at the Valley last weekend, has hit three goals in two games – and is looking to shoot down the Blades at Oakwell tomorrow. He said: “Hopefully I can score more goals, although the most important thing is for the team to keep playing well, winning matches, and climbing the table.”

Barnsley Chronicle - 07/11/08
Episode 8:

In this week's 'Coca-Cola' Football League podcast, Mark Clemmit is joined by Eric Whalley, Kenny Arthur, Graham Turner, Lee Camp and Frank Lampard.

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This week Clem finds himself in Accrington with Stanley's chairman Eric Whalley and goalkeeper and budding entrepreneur Kenny Arthur for company.

Hereford United's Chairman/Owner and Manager Graham Turner talks about the comings and goings in the league, including his own.

Nottingham Forest's Lee Camp reflects on his penalty save against his boyhood idols and former employers Derby County and Frank Lampard talks about his Vetch Field memories from his time on loan at Swansea City in the mid-nineties.

If you're registered with iTunes, you can set up a weekly subscription by clicking here.

Alternatively, if you're unfamiliar with how to listen to podcasts you can read a helpful guide by clicking here.

Between now and the end of the season the Coca-Cola Football League Podcast will feature all 72 League clubs, so make sure you listen to the show this week and every week.
Don't you just love statistics?

I've been playing around with a template, courtesy of Football Anorak and have put together the Yorkshire Form League, based against the recent form of the region's sides.

Barnsley stand proudly at the top. Over the period of the last five games, Simon Davey's Reds have lost just once. With this weekend in sight, 'the Blunts' have failed to win away from Bramhall Lane in their last two outings.


Sure, the outcome of this league is 'weighted' in Barnsley's favour, when you take just the last five games. But hey, I love the League Table when it's viewed on August 1st too - I make no apologies. Let's see what happens over the next five, starting at Oakwell this Saturday!
Barnsley manager Simon Davey will reach a significant milestone when he takes charge of his 100th game on Saturday.

Davey has a record of 35 wins, 19 draws and 45 losses during his time in charge at the club and became the longest serving manager since Danny Wilson when he surpassed the 88-game mark.

Wilson, who steered the club to the Premier League in 1997, was in charge for 201 games between 1994 and 1998.
Charlton 1 Barnsley 3

The Times, 2/11/08

AS HE stood in the teeming rain at the final whistle after watching his team capitulate at home to an ordinary Barnsley side, Alan Pardew’s job prospects appeared as bleak as the south London weather.

The Charlton faithful are a tolerant lot but their patience finally snapped as the Addicks slipped into the relegation zone and, alarmingly, showed little appetite for the fight.

The home side were three goals down after 39 minutes, which prompted the first cries of “Pardew out”, and the players were booed off at half-time.

Although captain Mark Hudson scored a late consolation goal, the fans’ reaction was worse at full-time, with dozens gathering outside the directors’ entrance to shout “we want Pardew out” and “we want our Charlton back”.

Without a win in five games, Pardew’s job is hanging by a thread. The former West Ham manager has two years left on the deal he signed in December 2006. The board may be reluctant to terminate one of the Championship’s most lucrative managerial contracts with the club £20m in debt and with Dubai-based Zabeel Investments withdrawing from its planned takeover of the club, though after this lacklustre display they may feel they have to act.

Pardew tinkered with his side despite a notable draw at Ipswich in midweek but his blueprint was soon in tatters.

Jonathan Macken, once a £5m buy for Manchester City, gobbled up two predator’s goals in the opening 17 minutes as the home defence failed to deal with set-pieces.

The much-travelled Darren Moore added a third when he beat two Charlton defenders to an Iain Hume cross, and the contest was all but over by the time Hudson pulled one back for the home side.

“The crowd were frustrated and I’m going to have to lean on some of the more experienced players to get us out of this situation,” said Pardew. “You can’t crawl under a stone and hide, you have to stand and face it.”
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Jon Macken struck twice and Darren Moore added a third, all before half-time, to heap more pressure on the beleaguered Addicks boss.

Skipper Mark Hudson pulled one back late on, but a Charlton side expected to challenge for promotion now lie in the bottom three after a desperate performance.

"We came down here with a gameplan and it worked perfectly," said Tykes boss Simon Davey.

"To go in 3-0 up at half-time was fantastic. We were comfortable for most of the game and our first half performance was magnificent.

"We've never won at Charlton before so to come here and get a win is fantastic for the club and shows the progress we have made."

"Jon Macken was different class. He led the line well, got his two goals and was a thorn in their side all game."

Pardew cut a forlorn figure on the touchline as the rain pelted down and his team, drained of any confidence and lacking in spirit, were given the runaround by a Barnsley side who kicked off one place below them.

The Tykes arrived in south-east London having taken 10 points from their last five games, and made it back-to-back away wins without breaking sweat.

They flew out of the blocks to take the lead with just two minutes on the clock.

Iain Hume's free-kick was cleared only as far as Macken, who was lurking on the edge of the area and drilled a low shot past Nicky Weaver and into the net.

Charlton have won just one of their last nine games and their anxiety was illustrated when Lloyd Sam got on the end of Luke Varney's header just eight yards out, only to lash his shot high and wide.

And in the 16th minute the Addicks found themselves two behind to Macken's third goal in two games.

Weaver got down well to keep out Anderson de Silva's shot but could only palm the ball to Macken, who followed up quickest to tuck away the rebound.

Andy Gray, back in the Charlton side after being dropped for the last two games, should have at least hit the target when the ball fell to him just inside the area, but the striker shot wastefully wide.

And a chorus of 'Pardew out' rang around The Valley six minutes before half-time when Moore rose highest in a crowded penalty area to head Robert Kozluk's free-kick past Weaver.

Hume could have added a fourth after the break but Weaver spread himself and kept out his angled drive.

Centre-half Hudson notched a consolation when he headed home Grant Basey's corner 15 minutes from the end.

Varney and Gray went close to a second as the clock ticked down but the deflated hosts could not muster a comeback and slumped to their fourth home defeat of a miserable season.
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BARNSLEY will be looking to take advantage of Charlton Athletic's current problems and move further away from the relegation zone.

The Addicks have tumbled down the table in the last few weeks and the collapse of a proposed takeover deal involving a Dubai-based consortium only heightened the gloom

At Barnsley, however, things are looking up with a haul of 10 points from a possible 15 in October lifting the club out of the bottom three.

The two clubs are level on points although Charlton sit one position higher in the table due to a better goal difference.

Barnsley manager Simon Davey has benefited from the availability of a fully-fit squad and is likely to name an unchanged side for the third game in a row.

Winger Jamal Campbell-Ryce, who recently signed a new three-year deal with the Tykes, started his career with Charlton in the Premier League but quit four years ago after making just five appearances as substitute.

The Jamaican international, 25, was born in nearby Lambeth and says: "I am not sure what kind of reception I will get, but there will always be a place in my heart for Charlton because of what they did for me."

Davey, meanwhile, has still not decided on a permanent successor to Brian Howard as club captain.

Defenders Stephen Foster and Darren Moore and striker Jon Macken are the three candidates in the frame with each taking it in turn to wear the armband in recent games.

Yorkshire Post, 1/11/08
Episode 7:

In this week's 'Coca-Cola' Football League podcast, Mark Clemmit is joined by Alan Irvine, Jamie Hoyland, Ricky Lambert and Neil Kinnock.

LISTEN NOW

Click here to listen to the seventh episode in full now

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Mark Clemmit is at Deepdale for this week's show and is joined by Preston North End manager Alan Irvine, who tells us about the benefits of making scouting trips in person and how competitive the Coca-Cola Championship is this season.

Meanwhile, Lilywhites' Reserve / Youth Team Coach Jamie Hoyland explains why he has been dusting off his dancing shoes.

We also hear from The Football League's top scorer, Bristol Rovers striker, Ricky Lambert about life at the Memorial Ground and the growing confidence his goals are bringing him.

Former Labour leader and Cardiff City supporter Neil Kinnock talks about his love for the Bluebirds and runs his eye over the ones to watch in South Wales.

If you're registered with iTunes, you can set up a weekly subscription by clicking here.

Alternatively, if you're unfamiliar with how to listen to podcasts you can read a helpful guide by clicking here.

Between now and the end of the season the Coca-Cola Football League Podcast will feature all 72 League clubs, so make sure you listen to the show this week and every week.