Derby County boss Wayne Rooney has warned his players that Barnsley will provide them with a 'unique' challenge tomorrow night.

Despite improving significantly since the England legend took over, successive defeats have left the Rams still nervously looking over their shoulder in their bid to stay in the Championship.

And, things aren't getting any easier for Derby, as they are travelling to face an in-form Barnsley side that have won seven games in a row.

Speaking to The Athletic reporter Ryan Conway, Rooney was aware of the threat the Tykes will pose, as he described them as 'very unique', before adding 'it's not pretty but it's effective'.

That has been backed up by Barnsley's recent run, which has actually seen them break into the top six.

Nevertheless, Rooney will still be confident that his team are capable of picking up three points at Oakwell, and he knows this is a great opportunity for the Rams to put some distance between themselves and the bottom three, as not many relegation rivals are playing midweek.

The verdict

There's no doubting that Barnsley do play in a way that differs to most in the Championship, as they press non-stop and attack in great numbers.

I'm sure the Tykes supporters would argue that the football they play is 'pretty' but nobody can dispute that it's been effective in recent weeks.

So, it's a huge game for both, and Rooney will have to come up with a good plan to ensure Derby don't become the latest side to lose against Barnsley.

Thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.