Middlesbrough manager Neil Warnock has admitted that it will be nice to be able to call upon the services of Lee Peltier in tomorrow's showdown with Barnsley at the Riverside Stadium.
Peltier missed Boro's 2-0 victory over Peterborough United at the weekend due to suspension as he picked up his fifth yellow card of the season against Hull City earlier this month.
Having served his ban, Peltier is set to be included in Middlesbrough's match-day squad for the club's clash with Barnsley.
Since making the move to Boro in the summer transfer window, the 34-year-old has managed to deliver some assured performances in the Championship.
During the six appearances that he has made for his new side at this level, Peltier has helped Middlesbrough secure three clean-sheets.
Set to face a Barnsley side who have only managed to score seven goals in the second-tier this season, Boro will fancy their chances of sealing all three points in this fixture.
Making reference to Peltier ahead of this game, Warnock has admitted that it is nice to have him available for this fixture as he believes that his side will be tested in a defensive sense on Wednesday.
Speaking to the club's official website, the Middlesbrough boss said: "There are a few niggles and a few haven't trained yet but I'm still hoping to have the same group.
"We just have to look after people with having three games in the space of a week.
"With Sol Bamba being the only defender, it's been strange really.
"I think the way Barnsley play will be more of a test for the lads at the back, so it's nice to have Lee [Peltier] available."
The Verdict
Whilst Boro didn't exactly struggle in Peltier's absence last weekend, they may need to turn to the defender for inspiration in tomorrow's game.
Blessed with a wealth of experience at this level, the defender knows exactly what it takes to succeed in the Championship as he has made 276 appearances in this division during his career.
Particularly impressive against Sheffield United earlier this season, Peltier managed to record a WhoScored match rating of 6.82 in this fixture as he helped his side clinch a 2-0 victory.
By replicating this display against Barnsley, Peltier could help Middlesbrough secure a third league win in four matches.