According to a reliable football journalist, Jose Morais is set to be sacked as Barnsley manager even if they survive relegation today.

Alan Nixon is reporting that Morais is likely t0 leave the club regardless of whether they are relegated to League One or whether they preserve their status as a Championship club later today.

It is crunch time for a number of teams in the Championship relegation battle today with five clubs vying to avoid the last two remaining relegation spots.

As things stand, Barnsley are 21st in the table following last weekend's crucial win over Brentford at Oakwell.

But today, the Tykes are facing a difficult trip to Pride Park, where they will take on a Derby County side who still need to confirm their place in the play-offs.

With just goal difference separating them from Burton Albion and one point between them and Bolton, it could go either way today depending on the results.

But whether they go down or stay afloat, Barnsley are likely to part ways with Morais.

The 52-year-old took over when Paul Heckingbottom left the club to join Leeds United earlier this season.

Formerly of Antalyaspor and AEK Athens, the Portuguese manager has only managed to pick up three wins with Barnsley in 14 games - a record which could cost him his job.

The Verdict

Morais has not had a transfer window to bring in his own players at Barnsley and he might be able to use his links with Jose Mourinho to bring in some quality players. But the truth is that he has shown tactical naivety at times and he is not well-liked at Oakwell. Maybe trading him in for a manager with more Championship experience could be a shrewd move.

Barnsley fans - Will Morais leave the club? What are your thoughts on his potential exit? Let us know below...