Valérien Ismaël's tactics for Barnsley included a compact 3-4-3 formation, direct attacking play, and a high defensive line.
Formation
Barnsley played in a 3-4-3 formation, depending on the opposition
When facing stronger teams, Barnsley would set up in a low block of five
Barnsley would limit their pressing to the opposition's full-backs, wing-backs, and midfielders
Attacking play
Barnsley played quickly forwards with purpose
Barnsley would create scoring opportunities through creative link up play
Barnsley would push the opposition back into their own half
Defensive line
Barnsley played with a high defensive line
Barnsley would prevent penetration through the center of the pitch
Other tactics
Barnsley would exploit the wide areas
Barnsley would play long, direct passes up the pitch