Hourihane appointed full-time by Tykes | OneFootball

Conor Hourihane admits he feels "emotional" after being named the full-time head coach of League One side Barnsley.

The Tykes dismissed Darrell Clarke last month following a nine-month tenure, during which a streak of seven losses in 11 fixtures saw the club fall out of the play-off race.

Hourihane, 34, previously an assistant coach and ex-Barnsley skipper, was placed in temporary control, supported by coaching staff Jon Stead, Martin Devaney, and Tom Harban.

He has now committed to a two-year deal, which includes an option for a third year.

Hourihane said: "It's pretty emotional, to be honest. I'm really honoured.

"I had success as captain, and now I want success as a head coach - it's as simple as that.

"I want to win football matches more than anyone. Step by step, the ultimate goal is to have success."

In a challenging spell, Barnsley managed only two points from Hourihane's opening four games at the helm, though they put up a spirited effort against champions Birmingham, eventually losing 6-2 at St Andrew’s. However, a commanding 4-1 triumph over Bolton on Saturday lifted them to 11th in the standings.

Chairman Neerav Parekh said on the club’s official website: "I have been impressed by Conor over the past five weeks.

"He has been a model professional and ultimately what we have seen is a change in the style of play which is much more in keeping with what we want to see from the team.

"We want an identity within the football club, a hard-working and organised team that supporters can appreciate and get behind, and I believe we have seen that in recent weeks.

"I believe that this can be a pivotal appointment for our club as we look to get back to our roots."