MARKUS Schopp says the Sunday lunchtime derby with Sheffield United is a ‘special game’ and a chance to turn Barnsley’s disappointing season in the right direction.

The second-bottom Reds, who have lost their last five games, host the Blades from 12.30pm.

United are 17th with 15 points from 13 games having dropped out of the Premier League last season, losing three of their last four.

Schopp told the Chronicle: “It is a big game and a big chance for us.

“We can turn a lot of things in the right direction.

“We will prepare everything for this important game and do everything to get three points.

“Every game is important but especially this game, a derby, is really really important.”

He added: “A derby is always something special, and in England it is extremely special. Everybody wants to do his best.”

Barnsley are winless in 11 and fans have booed at the end of several recent defeats.

Schopp said: “I think everybody wants to support the team.

“I understand there is disappointment but we have to stick together and find the solution to get out.

“It’s really hard for the fans and for us but we’re trying our best.”

United have former Barnsley heroes Conor Hourihane, and Oliver McBurnie.

The clubs have met 78 times, with Barnsley winning 20 and losing 32.

The Reds did win the most recent meeting, in April 2018 – a 3-2 success in 2018 with Tom Bradshaw netting an 88th-minute winner after goals by McBurnie and Gary Gardner.

Barnsley’s other two wins in the last 16 meetings since 2001 were at Oakwell in 2010 and Bramall Lane in 2014 thanks to winners by Hugo Colace and Sam Winnall.