Barnsley V Portsmouth: Striker's early exit opens way for defensive signing

Robins needs a new left-back after losing Matt Hill, Jay McEveley and Luke Potter to injuries in the last few weeks and Wood's departure releases the necessary funds.

Wood, a New Zealand international, joined the Tykes on a three-month loan deal from West Bromwich Albion in September but had started only three games and made four appearances as a substitute.

The Baggies were unhappy about his lack of first-team opportunities and it suited all parties to end the deal early.

"Chris has found it difficult and it has not really worked out for him here," said Robins yesterday. "I cannot guarantee him games and things are better served with him going back there and maybe trying somewhere else."

Albion's sporting and technical director Dan Ashworth confirmed that Wood, 18, would now join League One leaders Brighton and Hove Albion on loan until the New Year.

"Barnsley were happy to keep 'Woodsy' but he wasn't getting as many games as we would have liked," he said. "Brighton showed an interest and we think this will be a great experience for him. Brighton are flying at the top of League One and he will be working for a good manager in Gus Poyet who has similar playing principles to Roberto Di Matteo."

Wood's path to first-team football at Oakwell had been blocked by Andy Gray and loan signings Garry O'Connor and Paul Hayes.

The Tykes host Portsmouth today buoyed by back-to-back away victories at Preston North End and Ipswich Town.

The two clubs are level on points in mid-table but Pompey have picked up just one point from the last three games.

"This week has been tremendous in terms of results and performances and we have to keep that going and keep picking up points," said Robins. "We are short in numbers at the back and only have four fit defenders but I am not panicking because I do have a couple of options should I need them."

Portsmouth manager Steve Cotterill has stressed a need for his side to tighten up at the back after keeping just two clean sheets in their last 25 games.

Defender Carl Dickinson, who spent the majority of last season on loan with the Tykes from Stoke City, is banned after being sent off against Doncaster Rovers.