Our U23s return to action on Tuesday afternoon, hosting Sheffield United in their first South Yorkshire derby of the campaign.
Martin Devaney’s side will be looking to produce a response having suffered a 4-0 defeat on the road against Millwall last week.
They have already demonstrated their resilience this season, beating Queens Park Rangers 2-1 last month a week after a disappointing loss at home to Charlton Athletic.
Barnsley will face a Blades side also looking to bounce back from defeat, following a 2-0 reverse at the hands of Cardiff City.
The young Reds currently sit bottom of the Professional Development League North, although it is early days and just three points separate them and third-placed Sheffield United.
The two sides last met in February, when the spoils were shared after United fought back from going two goals down to secure a 2-2 draw.
They went on to face Birmingham City in the national final, but the Blues prevailed, clinching a 2-0 victory at Bramall Lane.
Opposition Guide
Manager: Paul Heckingbottom
Former Reds boss Heckingbottom will be in charge of the opposition, having returned to his role as U23s manager at Bramall Lane after a temporary spell in charge of the first team.
He cut his teeth as a coach within our youth ranks, before eventually becoming Head Coach in the senior set-up.
The 44-year-old went on to have stints at Leeds United and Hibernian but is now back in youth football with the Blades.
One To Watch: Hassan Ayari
A technically gifted attacking midfielder, Ayari is certainly one to keep an eye on.
He has already represented Tunisia at youth level, impressing in the U20 African Cup of Nations earlier this year.
Live text commentary will be provided on our Academy Twitter feed (@AcademyBFC) and a match report will follow the final whistle here on: barnsleyfc.co.uk
Supporters are reminded that this fixture will be played behind closed doors.
