THE man in form heading into tomorrow's FA Cup tie is Mike Sheron and Rovers could do well to take note.

The Liverpool-born former Manchester City front-runner has hit the goal trail of late taking his season's tally to seven from 16 league and cup outings - including six in his last seven starts - and Sheron, who turns 30 in seven days time, can be a thorn in the Premiership team's side.

However, Rovers are aided by the fact that Henning Berg is also on his mettle at the moment and the tussle could prove to be crucial in a tie that could prove tighter than most of the Ewood faithful may predict.

While the Tykes have been struggling all term new boss Steve Parkin has won the manager of the month award for December on the back of an unbeaten run of six games and confidence is beginning to grow at Oakwell.

Goals from Matt Jansen and David Dunn earned Rovers a 2-1 Division One success at Oakwell last term, but Barnsley took a draw from a 0-0 dtaw in the rematch at Ewood last term -- basically a close call.

MIKE SHERON

Born: Liverpool 11.1.72

Hons: England U-21

Clubs: Manchester C (apps 100, gls 24), Bury (loan apps 5, gls 1), Norwich (apps 28 gls 2), Stoke (apps 69, gls 34), QPR (apps 63, gls 19), Barnsley (apps 101, gls 19)

HENNING BERG

Born: Eidsvoll 1.9.69

Hons: Norway 81 caps

Clubs: Lillestrom, Manchester U (apps 66, gls 2), Blackburn Rovers (apps 220, gls 5)