Lita and Turnbull in line for Reds debuts

Goalkeeper Ross Turnbull is also hoping to have recovered from a back spasm which kept him out of Saturday’s opening-day defeat to Crawley when Owls product Adam Davies made his Football League bow.

Former Middlesbrough and Swansea striker Lita signed a one-year deal on Saturday morning and watched as shot-shy Barnsley succumbed to a goal from Izale McLeod following the 62nd-minute dismissal of Reds winger Dale Jennings.

Barnsley captain Martin Cranie is delighted to get an early opportunity to put that defeat behind them, saying: “The positive thing is that we haven’t had too long to dwell on Saturday’s defeat. We can scrap that one early and put it to bed.

“(Tonight’s) tie will definitely be as important a game as Saturday because we want to get that first win under our belt as soon as we can.

“It’s vital to get that first win which will instil a bit of belief in the boys and allow us to take it from there.

“If we beat them then we will have a good idea what they are about for when we travel to their place on Saturday.”

On Lita, Barnsley chief Danny Wilson said: “We have brought him in to provide a goal threat. He has got calibre and a good record.”

Last six games: Barnsley WLLLLL, Crewe Alexandra LWDDWL.

Last time: Barnsley 1 Crewe Alexandra 2; April 21, 2003; League One.

Referee: C Sarginson (Staffordshire).