CONOR HOURIHANE has been backed to lead Barnsley to the play-offs after being handed the reins until the end of the season.
The Tykes – who lie 10th in League One – have installed the Cork man as their boss following the sacking of Darrell Clarke.
Hourihane will be assisted by Jon Stead, Tom Harban and former Ireland youth international Martin Devaney.
Barnsley Sporting Director Mladen Sormaz said: “Whilst a list of replacements has been identified, we will take some time to ensure the next appointment is the right one with a focus on playing identity, returning to high pressing and attacking football
“We believe that Conor can help to create enough bounce to keep us fighting for the top six until the end of the season. We will also be working in parallel to have a new head coach in place over the summer.”
Barnsley are currently eight points off the last play-off spot.
Hourihane returned to Oakwell in a player-coach role last summer having previously played for the club between 2014 and 2017, during which time he helped them win promotion to the Championship.
But he never lined out for them in his second spell and his retirement in December, when he was promoted from first-team coach to assistant head coach
Hourihane won 36 caps for Ireland between 2017 and 2022, during which time he helped Aston Villa win promotion to the Premier League and played in a League Cup final against Manchester City.
