Luca Connell boost as Liverpool-born midfielder returns to Barnsley action after long lay-off

Ireland Under-21 international Luca Connell, who was born in Liverpool, made his return to action for Barnsley this week, playing 45 minutes for their under-21s after missing the opening three months of the season through illness.

Connell was arguably the best midfielder in League One last season and was rewarded with a new four-year deal from the Tykes in the summer. Unfortunately for the ex-Celtic and Bolton Wanderers man, he picked up an illness that kept him out of action for the long-term. But thankfully Connell has been able to slowly build up his fitness under the watchful eye of the club's medical staff, who deemed him fit to feature for the under-21s on Monday.

Barnsley are currently fifth in the table, five points off automatic promotion places, and with the return of one of their best players, they will be confident of clinching promotion.

Connell broke into the Bolton team at the age of 17, which resulted in a dream move to Celtic. But the move did not work out as planned. He failed to make a first-team appearance for the Glasgow giants but did enjoy two productive seasons on loan at Queen's Park, playing in Scotland's third and fourth tiers. The 22-year-old proved miles above the competition, starring in the Spiders' back-to-back promotions.

Connell left Celtic in the summer of 2022, despite having a year left on his contract, and signed for Barnsley. He took to life in Yorkshire brilliantly, instantly becoming a fan favourite. The Tykes are hoping to win promotion this season, having lost last season's play-off final to Sheffield Wednesday at Wembley. But if they do not achieve their aim, it is expected that a fully-fit Connell will be playing Championship football next season given how widely he is