Coppinger said: "Two Barnsley players were sent off for trying to knock me over, and we ended up winning 2-0 with a great goal by Paul Green near the end.

"We also went back there a bit later in the season in the LDV Vans Trophy and despite taking what was a reserve side, we beat a full-strength Barnsley side 5-2.

"We also won there in the league the previous season, so we've got a good record at Oakwell."

Coppinger is desperate to play in today's game after sitting out Tuesday's game against Sheffield United at the Keepmoat Stadium after contacting a sickness bug.

He said: "It was very disappointing to miss that game – especially with it being the first time that we had played them in 20 years.

"I wasn't at the match but, according to the reports that I've read, and talking to the boys, we played really well.

"It has been the same story all season – we've played well against the top clubs but had nothing to show for it.

"We've not been hammered by anybody. Even though we lost 4-1 at Bristol City it could easily have been 4-3.

"Obviously no-one is happy at losing five in a row, but the fact that we are playing well in most games does give us a lot of heart.

"Even though we haven't been winning I don't think that anyone has let their heads drop.

"With both of us being in the bottom three, it's a key game for both sides."

What do you think? Post your comments below.

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