CAPTAIN Cauley Woodrow admits it was difficult to watch Barnsley battle relegation during a 20-game injury absence but is pleased to be back on the pitch despite the very difficult circumstances.

Woodrow missed four months after injuring his ankle at Preston in December then undergoing surgery.

He returned as a substitute in both the draw at Swansea City on Friday then the home loss to fellow strugglers Peterborough United on Monday.

He told the Chronicle: “It’s been difficult to watch.

“It’s been a long time but injuries are part of football even if it is disappointing. I am pleased to be back playing football now.”

The Reds have won just six of 42 games this season and are bottom of the Championship, 11 points from safety, but Woodrow believes that does not reflect the quality of the squad.

“I think we’re better team than our position.

“A lot of these boys were involved last season (when Barnsley came fifth).

“We have brought in some good players, we have some good young players.

“I don’t think we should be in this position.

“We still have a few games left, we will just try and win them.

“We will keep trying, that’s all we can do.”

Barnsley visit high-flying Huddersfield Town on Friday knowing anything other than a win will see them relegated.

“We have got nothing to lose. We just have to try and win. They are doing really well and but we will go there and try to get three points.”

After the Peterborough game, Woodrow said: “We’re disappointed.

“I thought we played well.

“We were the better team, they scored two goals.

“It’s as simple as that really.

“If you’re a Barnsley fan, you can’t say the lads aren’t trying.

“It’s been the same all season. We play quite well, I think we had about 20 shots, but they scored two. It is crazy they won 2-0.”