Lockyer in contention for Barnsley clash after successful trip with Wales

Centre half Tom Lockyer is in contention for his Luton debut in the Championship opener at Barnsley tomorrow.

The 25-year-old signed for Town at the start of this month on a free transfer from Charlton Athletic, before immediately going away with Wales on international duty.

He won his 11th and 12th caps for his country, playing the full games as Ryan Giggs’ side beat Finland 1-0 and then Bulgaria by the same scoreline.

Although it meant he is yet to get the chance to form a partnership with the back four, after missing a weeks training and the 3-1 Carabao Cup win over Norwich City, Jones hinted it wouldn't affect Lockyer's chances of a maiden Town start at Oakwell.

He said: “They do need to form understandings, but we’ve done real good work this week and he’s had that work, so he hasn’t missed out on anything.

“Without being disrespectful I think Tom’s probably had harder training sessions than the games.

“Wales were very good, but they didn't get really tested against Finland or Bulgaria.

"So he’s come back in and been able to train all week as the intensity of the games in international football can be a little bit like that, but especially because they were comfortable.

“I think he's fine and he’s had a good week's training.”

Jones was without both Lockyer and keeper Simon Sluga for the victory over Norwich, but was happy to see both players get international recognition.

Going forward, the Town chief wants even more of his squad to follow suit, adding: "Simon joined us later because Tom had been in from Monday, Simon’s come in today (Thursday), so it’s a little bit more difficult for him.

“They've gone away and have had tougher games, but he hasn’t played any minutes, so we’re pleased they’ve both come back in injury free.

“We hope they've both injured their experience, but now it’s getting back to the next month of the day-to-day bread and butter business.

“We’re proud of having international players, it shows that we've come a long way.

"Three years ago we didn't necessarily have any internationals, but now we’ve got potentially four, maybe even be more god willing if we strengthen the squad and that shows the level we’re at.”