Derby County are looking to end a three-game winless run when they take on in-form Barnsley tonight, but David Prutton has backed the hosts to pick up another three points.

Wayne Rooney has done a fine job since landing the Rams job on a permanent basis, but the recent dip means they are still looking over their shoulder in terms of staying in the Championship.

And, they're going to take on a Barnsley side that are flying, as the Tykes are on a seven-game winning streak, which has seen them go from mid-table up to the play-off places.

Therefore, the Yorkshire outfit will start as favourites, and writing in his Sky Sports prediction column, former Nottingham Forest midfielder Prutton went for a 2-0 home win.

"Barnsley will be so tough to beat and so I think it could be a third straight defeat for the Rams. 2-0."

With no other Championship fixtures scheduled this evening, Derby could move nine points clear of the drop zone with a win, whilst the Tykes can open up a four-point cushion over the chasing pack in the race for the play-offs.

The verdict

On the face of it, this seems like a home banker, because Barnsley are flying and Derby have stuttered in the past few games, so you can see why Prutton thinks the hosts will win.

Of course, the Championship rarely seems to go to plan, which is why it's such a great league, so you shouldn't rule out an away victory!

From Rooney's perspective, he will be demanding a response from his players, and this will be a huge test.

Thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.