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We are already through to the next round, but the trip to Barnsley offers a welcome chance to rotate, reset and maybe rediscover a bit of rhythm after a tricky start to November.
The EFL Trophy might be a so-called “dead rubber”, but it still matters in context. It’s a chance to get minutes into fringe players, keep key men fresh for Doncaster at the weekend, and perhaps let one or two remind Michael Skubala what they can offer when the serious stuff returns.
Goalkeeper
This one should fall to Zach Jeacock. He’s featured in cup competitions all season and has not let anyone down. After George Wickens’ mixed afternoon against Rotherham, the former Birmingham stopper deserves another look in the Trophy.
A penalty shoot-out wouldn’t be a bad test of his mettle either, even if it would be pointless, given that a draw would be enough for us to win the group.
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Defence
At right-back, Tendayi Darikwa is likely to come in. It’s expected that Dexter Lembikisa will be away by then, and with Tendayi missing Saturday, he could play.
On the opposite flank, Ryley Towler should come in for Adam Reach, who doesn’t need the risk of another midweek outing. Oddly, given my previous reasoning, this slightly devalues our width on the left.
In the centre, Lewis Montsma is a logical inclusion. He needs minutes and remains capable of a big performance, as seen against Chelsea.
Expect Sonny Bradley to start alongside him, perhaps sharing minutes with Adam Jackson as both are managed carefully through the schedule.
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Midfield
The middle of the park is likely to feature Finn Barbrook. Barbrook impressed against Manchester United’s under-21s and could use another start to prove he can be trusted when the league campaign demands depth.
I wouldn’t be surprised if he isn’t joined by Oisin Gallagher. Michael Skubala hinted at Oisn’s inclusion, and I suspect he might play, and be replaced after 60 minutes or so.
Both are tidy on the ball, defensively responsible and should keep the tempo sensible in a game where control matters more than chaos. That is if anything really matters that much at all.
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Attacking Options
The attacking three could be a blend of energy and players who need confidence. Oscar Thorn showed bright flashes on Saturday and looks ready for another start on the right, while Frankie Okwonkwo will get a full run-out after several cameos from the bench. In fairness, after impressing early doors, the Everton-loanee hasn’t got into a rhythm, and needs a decent game and a goal to get going.
On the left, be prepared for a shock inclusion: Dom Jefferies. I believe he got minutes in a friendly last week, and I wouldn’t be surprised at 60 minutes for him. There won’t be anything too adventurous about his position, but he played left wing back for us last season, and current player availability means he could feature there again.
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Up Front
This feels like the right time for James Collins to start, although in my eyes, every time is the right time. He’s gone ten games without scoring, but his experience, link-up play and natural finishing could all use a confidence boost.
Give him an hour, let him chase one into the net, and maybe it sparks something for the weeks ahead. If all goes to plan, Rob Street or Freddie Draper can take over after the hour mark, keeping legs fresh for Doncaster while maintaining competition among the front line.
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Predicted XI
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Starting XI: Jeacock; Darikwa, Montsma, Bradley, Towler; Gallagher, Barbrook; Thorne, Okwonkwo, Jefferies; Collins.
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