Derby County captain linked with Barnsley return in dual role

Derby County captain Conor Hourihane is out of contract this summer and has already been linked with moves away from Pride Park.

The 33 year-old is reportedly wanted by Barnsley, his former team, in a player-coach role.

The Yorkshire Post reported that the Tykes are considering Hourihane whilst they search for a new manager after sacking Neil Collins in April before the end of the season.

They were eliminated from the playoffs after losing to Bolton over two legs.

Hourihane has previously said that he is keen on going into management after his playing career and so a player-coach role could be ideal for the Irishman.

He has spent two seasons at Derby making 98 appearances scoring 13 goals and recording 19 assists.

The midfielder led the Rams to League One promotion and has been incredibly good as a leader both on and off the pitch.

Hourihane has also previously had a captaincy role at both Barnsley and Aston Villa, where he also earnt promotion both to the Championship and the Premier League.

The Irishman also has 36 caps and one international goal.

Barnsley have also lined up a number of other candidates including former boss Daniel Stendel who was at the club in 2019.

Stendel is currently managing Hannover’s reserve team in Germany.