Valerien Ismael on Barnsley FC creating records

The Frenchman's first away game in charge takes place at Cardiff City on Tuesday night, with the 46-year-old boasting a 100 per cent record from two home matches which have yielded morale-boosting wins against Watford and QPR.

The only downside has been a growing injury count, with Callum Brittain, impressive since joining the club from MK Dons last month, missing tomorrow night's game with a muscle injury.

Jordan Williams, Romal Palmer and Cauley Woodrow also sit out the game, alongside long-term casualty Ben Williams.

Ismael, who acknowledges the fact that his high-energy style of play may be a contributing factor as to why some players are missing games as they get used to his demands, said: "Callum is definitely out for the game. I think we have a good chance that he will be available for Saturday, but tomorrow is too short.

"Jordan Williams, Romal Palmer and Cauley Woodrow are also out. It is a long list, but Victor (Adeboyejo) is back and that is why we have another possibility in the striking positions.

"If you look at the last two games and the physical data from the team, it was a high-level record for what the team showed. For me, it is not a surprise that something like this happens. It is a new way and we have to adapt and I have to accept that something like this happens.

"It was a record in terms of distance, high speeds and sprints. I told my staff that, for me, it is the lowest level (I want) and now I want to see more at the next level and we have to invest a lot of energy, passion and runs and we have to (continue) to work hard and this is our way.

"They are small injuries, not something big. I have to expect something like this happens."

On tomorrow's test provided by a direct and physically strong Cardiff side, whose attack is spearheaded by former Reds marksman Kieffer Moore, he added: "I am looking forward to this game and it was the same against Watford.

"I need to see where we stand and want to go and how we can close the gap. This (Cardiff style) is another way to play football and you have to adapt and we have to be flexible.

"But I also want to see the opponents adapting against us. We have to play our game and be confident in our quality and we have to be ready to fight and work all together."