Kenny Dougall could miss the rest of 2018 with an ankle injury.

The Australian midfielder hobbled off early in Barnsley’s 3-1 loss at Shrewsbury Town on Tuesday. He wore a protective boot on the sidelines but was fit enough to get involved in the touchline altercation which saw head coach Daniel Stendel sent off. Stendel said: “I think his injury could be longer than this year. He’s a very important player but I am sure other players can come in and show how well they can play.”

Dougall was the recipient of a series of heavy challenges in Shrewsbury, finally being injured by Anthony Grant who was booked. Assistant coach Andreas Winkler said: “I hope it wasn’t a plan for Shrewsbury. It was just a tackle to hurt him, not to win the ball. But the referee thought it was too early for a red card. A strong referee can send him off.” 

Stendel added: “We like a fight on the pitch but that was too much. It should have been a red card.”

Striker Cauley Woodrow has been back in training this week. Stendel said: “I hope he can be in the squad for Saturday but I am not sure. I am sure that he can play next week (against his former club Southend United).”

Left-back Dani Pinillos is likely to replace Ben Williams after being suspended for Tuesday’s match.