"Fox in the box" - Barnsley urged to make "great step forward" with two January transfers | OneFootball

FLW's Barnsley fan pundit has identified what the club's January plans should be

Barnsley will be targeting a top six finish in the League One table this season.

The Tykes have had a solid first half of the campaign and are in the mix for a play-off place, as they seek promotion to the Championship.

But the January transfer window could prove crucial for Darrell Clarke’s side, as it offers the Yorkshire outfit the chance to make improvements that can strengthen their promotion credentials.

Barnsley will surely be active in the market, as they look to bridge the gap to top teams like Wycombe Wanderers, Wrexham and Huddersfield Town.

Barnsley transfer demand claim

When asked what demand Clarke will have for the January window, FLW’s Barnsley fan pundit Andy Symcox suggested he will want two new additions to the team.

He believes that a poacher up front would improve their promotion chances, as would an exciting addition out wide that could get fans on their feet.

“If I was the Barnsley head coach I would ask the board to recruit two types of player,” Symcox told Football League World.

“One, a new striker, particularly a fox in the box.

“At Barnsley, we are creating numerous chances but not putting them away.

“A fox in the box character, in the absence of Max Watters who is injured, would be a great step forward to improve our results.

“Secondly, I would also like a fast, tricky wing, who would cause consternation among opposition defences by going at them directly, in the mould of our ex-player Adam Hammill.”

Barnsley are in their third campaign back in League One, narrowly missing out on promotion in both of the last two seasons.

Barnsley’s lack of goals will damage promotion hopes

Barnsley’s goal record so far this season hasn’t been impressive when you consider their aims for the year.

They lack a consistent goal scorer that can win them games almost on his own, which is the difference between finishing in the top four and finishing ninth or so.

January could prove very important for their season, as a smart January addition can have a transformative impact on their form.