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Davey: 'Our biggest test'
BARNSLEY boss Simon Davey has dubbed Birmingham City the Championship's biggest challenge.
"With a full stadium there, it is the toughest test for anyone in this division," Davey declared as he prepared to take his team to St Andrew's tomorrow.
"They've won three out of three but that doesn't mean that I would take a point right now.
"Everyone is going to put their money on Birmingham but if Birmingham think it is going to be straightforward they're in for a surprise.
"Just remember we are Barnsley, remember the FA Cup run. On our day, we can beat anybody."
Barnsley go into the game without suspended duo Marciano van Homoet and Iain Hume.
Rob Kozluk or Bobby Hassell could take over at left-back from van Homoet and, if Davey persists with a 4-4-2 formation, either Kayode Odejayi or Miguel Mostto will partner striker Jon Macken in Hume's place.
Left winger Mounir El Haimour is fit again but cover striker Maceo Rigters has a hamstring injury. Argentine midfielder Hugo Colace is unlikely to be available either.
Barnsley still do not have international clearance for the former under-23 international and this morning the odds were stacked against FIFA granting him licence in time for tomorrow's match.
"I'm not holding my breath," Davey said. "Hugo is distraught at the moment because he came in early and has trained all summer to be fit and ready. He is incredibly frustrated."
Gary Teale, signed on loan from Derby for a month, is expected to play his second game tomorrow.
He said: "Birmingham are a good side but they got relegated last year. I don't think we have anything to fear."
Davey is expecting the transfer window to close on September 1 without further recruitment.
Jamal Campbell-Ryce, Heinz Muller and Anderson de Silva are all set to return to the squad inside the next six weeks.
What do you think? Post your comments below.
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Weather for Sheffield
Saturday 26 May 2012
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