CONOR Hourihane admits it has been ‘a difficult one’ managing supporter expectations that he would play more after his return to Barnsley but is now focusing on what he hopes will be an exciting coaching career.

The former promotion-winning Reds captain returned last summer as a player/coach but has been focusing more on coaching and now has officially announced his retirement from playing.

The Irishman, 33, has signed a new contract and the Chronicle understands he has taken a significant paycut.

Hourihane told the Chronicle: “It was a difficult one. In the summer I came back and had such a fond relationship with the club and fans.

“There was an eye on playing a little bit but I knew in my head and made it clear when I first signed that coaching would take priority.

“I was slowing down and not getting to the level I wanted to get to.

“I couldn’t give 100 per cent to both roles. The fans remember a 25, 26, 27-year-old Conor Hourihane playing out of his skin.

“That player just isn’t there.

“I would love to live in the past but it was never going to be the case.

“It’s about creating new good days now with the coaching side of things.”

Hourihane played twice in August, coming off the bench in the first game against Mansfield then starting against Northampton.

“It was nice to get out on the pitch but I was coaching leading into the games and didn’t feel prepared or fit enough.

“It was really difficult. I am honest with myself and self-aware.

“There were better players around me. I wouldn’t be putting in any better performances than them. The club have been very happy with what I have been doing coaching-wise.”

He added: “The club didn’t maybe realise the level I was at in coaching.

“I obviously made a good impression.

“The manager has given me more work. Dean Whitehead left and they wanted me to step up. Ever since then I have stepped away from the playing side.”

Hourihane has been tasked by head coach Darrell Clarke to take charge of attacking set pieces, which have been more fruitful this season than last.

“We’re doing OK but I always demand more. I have been given that task from the manager.

“I think we’ve been getting better and I have loved it. I have been pushing the takers to get better.

“It’s not just corners and free-kicks.

“We have about 35 throw-ins per game and they are opportunities to keep the ball not just throw it up the line and make it a 50/50 ball. It’s so important to be able to retain the ball.”

Hourihane’s former team-mate at Oakwell Marc Roberts also returned in the summer and had been almost an ever-present until a recent injury.

“He’s done great but that’s not surprising. Playing in the back three and in the middle of it, nine times out of ten he’s a big player for us. He’s been a leader and long may it continue.”

Hourihane is a full international for the Republic of Ireland and also played in the Premier League for Aston Villa who bought him after he led Barnsley to two Wembley wins in 2016.

“I have had many highlights. Promotions are very high. Getting to the Premier League, the wins at Wembley with Barnsley. Playing in big games at international level and a Carabao Cup final.

“I have been very fortunate.

“It’s through hard work and sacrifice and that’s the message I give to these players now to not have any regrets which is a big thing for me.”