 Coulson was signed by Barnsley on a two-year contract on 4 July 2006, following their promotion to the Championship.Ritchie described him as a "good young, raw talent who I am sure will develop into a fine addition to our squad".His debut came in Barnsley's 2–2 draw away to Blackpool in the League Cup on 22 August 2006, which Barnsley went on to win 4–2 in a penalty shoot-out, and was booked during the match for a collision with Blackpool goalkeeper Rhys Evans.