This article is part of Football League World's 'The Verdict' series, which provides personal opinions from the FLW writers regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more...

Barnsley are finally close to appointing current Wolfsberger AC boss Gerhard Struber as their new permanent manager, according to German media outlet Kleine Zeitung, as the Tykes look to replace Daniel Stendel who was sacked back in October.

Struber, 42, will take over a Barnsley side who are rooted to the bottom of the Championship with only one win all season - it's set to be a challenge for the coach who has only managed in his native Austria.

So what issues will Struber need to fix at Barnsley?

We discuss..........

Ned Holmes

"His highest priority has got to be sorting out the Tykes' defensive issues.

"Barnsley have conceded the most goals in the Championship this season, averaging more than two a game, and have kept just two clean sheets so far.

"They've been playing three at the back under Adam Murray but I think we'll see a change under the new boss, who has preferred a back four at Wolfsberger.

"Struber also needs to get the rest of the squad scoring, as they have become reliant on Cauley Woodrow–the only player to score more than twice in the league."

George Brooks

"This would certainly be an interesting appointment for Barnsley. First and foremost, Gerhand Struber would need to adapt to the challenges that come with managing in the Championship.

"As for Barnsley, he's going to have a real challenge on his hands when it comes to helping the club get their season back on track. There's no doubt whatsoever that the team need to improve defensively. They've conceded far too many goals - 33 in the league.

"It's going to be extremely difficult for them to remain in the division if they continue to concede that many and this is something that the new manager would need to address immediately.

"He'll also need to make sure that he can restore the confidence and the belief into the players. He'll need to get the best out of them and make sure that they start turning some of their draws into wins."

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Jacob Potter

"He needs to build on what Adam Murray has done with the Tykes.

"Barnsley have become tougher to beat in recent weeks which will be pleasing to see for the club’s supporters.

"They’re in real trouble though at the moment, and need to find some consistency in their performances at the earliest of opportunities.

"I still think it’s somewhat of a risk by Barnsley in appointing a manager without any experience in English football, and this could have disastrous consequences if it backfires.

"He needs to address their defensive frailties as soon as possible though, otherwise they won’t stand a chance in surviving in the Championship this season."