Barnsley visit Reading

Barnsley Head Coach Conor Hourihane confirmed that Marc Roberts is said to return to the squad for Reading, whilst Davis Keillor-Dunn is over the illness that kept him out of the win against Blackpool. 

Fabio Jalo is not expected to be involved on the weekend, and the youngster may be loaned out this window. 

Josh Earl is expected to be out until March with a foot injury. 

Skipper Luca Connell is still suspended for one more match after his straight red card away at Wigan on New Year’s Day. 

Hourihane also said he was looking for a couple more forward additions this January, seeming settled on his defensive options. 

He expressed a want for experienced players on loan who know the division and can come straight into the squad to help Barnsley with their gruelling schedule. 

There have also been no more bids for Davis Keillor-Dunn or Reyes Cleary according to his knowledge. 

The Irishman also alluded to the fact that the back five out-of-possession will be staying, as it helps the Reds be more solid defensively. 

The win over Blackpool last weekend was important for Barnsley as it moved them three points clear of the relegation zone, and it could be the catalyst for more wins potentially. 

Barnsley are now set for a busy schedule that will see them play their remaining 24 league matches in 98 days after Saturday’s trip to Reading. 

As for Reading, they have seen an upturn in form after manager Noel Hunt was sacked in late October when The Royals were sat 19th. 

Former Wigan and Rotherham boss Leam Richardson was appointed on October 28, 2025, and he has guided Reading into 11th place. 

Before Saturday’s loss away at Leyton Orient, The Royals were unbeaten in five games, winning four which included victories over Luton and Stockport. 

Key players include striker Jack Marriott who has six goal contributions in his last six games. 

Midfielder Lewis Wing also has eight goals and four assists in 25 League One matches. 

Earlier this season, Barnsley beat Reading on 13 September at Oakwell 3-2, and it could be another high scoring game considering the attacking playstyle of both sides. 

The last five league meetings between the two sides have produced four goals or more. 

Barnsley and Reading have played 85 times in competitive fixtures, with The Reds winning 29 and losing 32.