Barnsley's apprehension causing Robins concern

The Tykes lost at home to Burnley and missed an opportunity to move within two points of the Championship play-off zone.

Robins wanted to know 'what they were frightened of' and pointed to results in previous seasons as proof of a worrying trend whenever the Tykes get in a position to challenge for promotion.

"From what's happened in the last few years, we end up falling flat as soon as we get within touching distance of actually consolidating a position at the right end of the league," Robins said. "I asked the players what they were frightened of.

"We need a response against Swansea and I need more from one or two areas – and the people I am talking about have been told."

Fourth-placed Swansea suffered a 4-0 defeat at leaders Queens Park Rangers and have picked up only five points from the last 18 available. "They will be stinging from that," said Robins, "but we have not performed (against Burnley), we need to bear that in mind, too."

Speaking of his side's defeat at Loftus Road, Swansea manager Brendan Rogers said: "We were disappointed with our defending and we owe ourselves and our supporters a performance. But I am not worried with how the players are working. We just need to dust ourselves down and go again.

"It's the first time in a long time that we've lost two games in a row. But I remember Blackpool going to Crystal Palace and losing 4-0 last season and things turned out pretty well for them, so that's worth remembering."

Barnsley will again be without Scottish international striker Garry O'Connor who is ineligible until January 3 after joining the club on a permanent deal from Birmingham City.

Swansea will be without defender Alan Tate who must serve a three-game ban after his red card for violent conduct at Loftus Road.

Last six games: Swansea DLWDLL, Barnsley WWWDWL.

Last time: Swansea 3 Barnsley 1; April 17, 2010; Championship.

Referee: GL Ward (Surrey).