The 27-year-old has been sidelined since suffering ankle ligament damage during the Tykes 1-1 draw with Ipswich in January.
But Barnsley boss David Flitcroft says the Irishman is closing in on a return after missing nine games.
"Daws is close," said Flitcroft, whose side stayed on the west side of the Pennines following Tuesday night's 1-1 draw at Burnley to continue preparations at the Dunkenhalgh Hotel and Spa near Blackburn.
"He wants to be and is gearing up to try and get this game in. We'll have a fitness check with him on Friday.
"I'd love Steve Dawson to be a part of Saturday. He epitomises everything I like in a human being.
"He carries fight, he carries hope, he carries spirit and I'd love him to be involved, but we might be a week short."
Flitcroft has no new injury or suspension worries.
Rory Delap, who is on loan from Stoke, returned to the bench as an unused substitute at Burnley following a calf strain and is expected to be included, while fellow defender Jim McNulty is hoping to shake off an ankle injury.







