Barnes, Sheffield United's goalkeeping number two, has the lowdown on QPR having been signed as an emergency stop-gap by then manager Ian Holloway for the Londoners' recent trip to Leeds.
But those lucky enough to have an invite into Warnock's inner sanctum at Shirecliffe were left in no doubt that gleaning inside information on tomorrow's visitors to Bramall Lane did not top his list of priorities.
Instead, with promotion to the Premiership now tantalisingly close, United's commader-in-chief is determined his troops will focus only on themselves during the 11 games which will decide where they are plying their trades next season.
Pouring over details of the oppositions' strengths and weaknesses is not foremost in Warnock's mind.
"For me, we've got to concentrate on what we can do, not worry about anyone else," he said.
"We know all about QPR and we know they've got players who are capable of hurting other teams.
"After all, we've had Paul Furlong here and Danny Shittu is one of the best centre-halves around at this level.
"But we've got plenty of strengths and it's important we don't forget that."
The theory behind Warnock's thinking is plain to see.
United will start the afternoon in second place, 10 points ahead of their nearest challengers, Watford.
QPR, having failed to become the sum total of their parts, are drifting in mid-table.
With a new manager at the helm, QPR's approach may be slightly different to the one they employed in August at Loftus Road, Warnock conceded.
Although the reasons behind the 2-1 defeat United suffered that day have long since evaporated - "That was then, this is now," the Lane boss insisted - this wily old streetfighter has ensured the memory has lingered around the training ground this week.
"We didn't impose ourselves down there, they got the goal and because of that we couldn't get back into it," continued Warnock.
"We put in the effort without really putting our stamp on things and that can't happen again.
"I've heard their manager saying he wants to play a bit more football but, and I mean no disrespect by this, I tend to take things like that with a pinch of salt."
With Alan Quinn, Leigh Bromby and Craig Short all likely to return next week, Warnock is set to continue with the same squad of players who beat Sheffeld Wednesday 2-1 at Hillsborough last Saturday.
But with a welter of options at his disposal in midfield and attack, he reserved the right to tinker slightly with the starting line-up.
"Everyone knows that they've got to hit top marks to keep a hold of the shirt now," said Warnock.
"Often, picking the subsitutes bench has been the hardest thing to do in recent weeks because telling a player he's not going to be involved at all is tough.
"But, in fairness to all the lads, they've been superb.
"They know the situation and although it might appear to be easier to get up for a game against Wednesday let me assure you that's not actually the case.
"Every game left is a cup final which means no one game is bigger than another."
Geoff Horsfield is pressing hard for a starting role after appearing as a second-half substitute during last weekend's 2-1 win at Wednesday while Bruce Dyer, Neil Shipperley, Steven Kabba and possibly even Danny Webber are also vying for a place alongside Ade Akinbiyi.
David Unsworth's return from suspension was a major factor behind the decision to allow Alan Wright to join Derby County on loan yesterday.
n Tomorrow's game has been designated a 'Kids for a Quid' fixture with under-16s able to take advantage of the discounted rate providing they purchase a ticket by close of business today.
Tickets for the visit of QPR are selling well and supporters are strongly advised to reserve their seat in advance to avoid disappointment.
The Global Windows stand is already sold out, apart from Blocks G and H where identification is needed both at point of sale and on entry to the stadium.
The Hfs Family Enclosure is nearing capacity, while the Bramall Lane Upper Tier is again open to home supporters.
Adult ticket prices begin at £19 for this category B fixture.
For more information contact the Blades Box Office on 0870 787 1960.
james.shield@sheffieldnewspapers.co.uk