class=”article_teaser__2t5do”>With the Tykes struggling for cutting edge in attack, Al Hain-Cole is backing Tuchel's men to avoid another FA Cup upset at Oakwell on Thursday
Barnsley will be hoping history repeats itself when the Championship side welcome Chelsea to Oakwell in Thursday’s FA Cup Fifth Round tie.
The Tykes pulled off a memorable cup upset against the then-holders when they last met in this competition back in 2008, running out 1-0 winners on home turf in the quarter-finals.
Barnsley vs Chelsea Latest Odds
However, having been thrashed 6-0 at Stamford Bridge in September’s Carabao Cup encounter, they are 9/1 (10.00) outsiders with bet365 to pull off another shock win here.
Thomas Tuchel’s men have won three and lost none of their four matches since he took command last month, and are clear 3/10 (1.30) favourites to ease into the next round by coming out on top here.
None of the guests’ last 14 fixtures in this competition have resulted in draws, but you can get odds of 9/2 (5.50) on them being forced into extra-time after a deadlocked 90 minutes in this one.
Barnsley vs Chelsea Team News
New signing Daryl Dike is in line for his Barnsley debut after joining from Orlando City on loan, although Ben Williams, Liam Kitching and Aapo Halme are all sidelined due to injury.
Timo Werner will be assessed due to the dead leg he suffered in the 2-1 win over Sheffield United, while Thiago Silva is injured and Christian Pulisic back in contention after missing the trip to Bramall Lane for personal reasons.
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Barnsley vs Chelsea Preview
Valerien Ismael will be hoping young USA striker Dike can make an immediate impact considering his side’s recent struggles for cutting edge, having failed to find the net in four out of the last five Championship games.
Their tally of just 12 shots on target in that time is also indicative of Barnsley struggling in front of goal, with no side in the second-tier having fewer in that period.
While the Tykes have been on target in two FA Cup ties during that span, they may struggle to find more joy in this competition against a Blues side that has conceded just once in four matches under their new manager.
Barnsley vs Chelsea Tips and Predictions
Indeed, Chelsea have actually let in just four goals in their last eight matches in total and look well worth the 6/5 (2.20) odds to extend their winning streak to four in a row while keeping a fourth clean sheet in five considering Barnsley’s lack of firepower of late.
All odds correct at time of writing. Please gamble responsibly.
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