After re-signing for Barnsley FC in a player/coach role last week, former captain Conor Hourihane gave an interview about his first spell and his hopes for the second. Here’s what he said about....
RETURNING TO BARNSLEY
It felt a bit surreal, coming back with my wife and kids so I’ve come full circle. It’s a special day. It’s amazing to be back ten years from the last time I signed.
HIS PLAYER/COACH ROLE
That was a big attraction for me. After leaving Derby, I spoke to Barnsley and the new manager who was shuffling the pack a bit coach-wise.
With how much coaching I have done in the last four or five years, the opportunity of doing both here really interested me.
On top of that, with the fondness I have towards the club, it just fitted in really nicely.
I have always wanted to come back in some capacity.
I am delighted to be able to do a little bit of both.
WORKING IN THE ACADEMY
I have known Bobby Hassell (academy manager) since I was here last time.
12 months ago an opportunity came up for me to coach the under 15s and 16s. I tried to keep it quiet with Derby being in the same league.
I was doing the 15s and 16s at Aston Villa as well so the more experience I was getting the better.
FAVOURITE MEMORIES FROM LAST TIME
Obviously it goes without saying the two Wembley wins were special.
But for me probably the fondest memory is the way I left – scoring that free-kick winner against Leeds.
Prior to that game I knew I was leaving. I think there is a huge respect from the fans towards me with how I left.
I wanted to leave on good terms and, if I hadn’t, I probably wouldn’t be here now.
It’s my favourite goal for Barnsley. I get goosebumps talking about it. Oakwell was rocking.
PLAYING AGAINST BARNSLEY AFTER LEAVING
It was a little bit strange, definitely to start with. Villa played Barnsley four or five games into my time there and Barnsley beat us.
That was tough.
Over the years it gets easier.
In the last few years, Derby were fighting for similar things so coming back here has been quite interesting, let’s say.
But there is always respect from both sides. You just play the game then afterwards it’s the same.
BRINGING EXPERIENCE TO THE SQUAD
I hope I am someone they can lean on.
The squad is young and, if I can give them advice and work with them individually to help them improve for their careers and help the team, I will be looking to do that.
GOING FOR PROMOTION AGAIN
I have tasted promotion from this league and with this club.
I know what it takes.
I know how the club should look and how the environment should look. No doubt the manager will create that.
With everyone pushing in the right direction, there is no reason we can’t get that promotion.
HEAD COACH DARRELL CLARKE
I am really looking forward to working with him. I met him prior to signing.
I am really fortunate he’s trusted me.
It’s amazing.
I will just work hard for him and try to help the team have a great season.
MESSAGE TO THE FANS
It’s great to be back. Thanks for the support when I was here as captain.
There have been amazing messages over the years when I have gone on to achieve great things with other clubs.
Hopefully we can write another chapter the second time around.
