Conor Hourihane has been named permanent head coach of Barnsley after impressing during his spell as interim boss.

The 34-year-old, who captained the Reds to promotion in 2016, has signed a two-year contract with an option for an extra season.

Hourihane, who rejoined the club last summer as player/coach but soon retired from playing then took over from Darrell Clarke last month, has been in charge of six games – winning the most recent one 4-1 at home to Bolton on Saturday with an impressive performance.

There were two other overseas coaches who were in contention until this week but the board have been won over by Hourihane’s impact on the club and team behind-the-scenes since taking over.

Chairman Neerav Parekh said: “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. We are playing more attacking football, the players are getting on the front foot and looking to get fans off their seats, and we are also seeing academy players being trusted to represent the Club too.

“I am sure supporters will join me in welcoming Conor to the role permanently and I believe that this can be a pivotal appointment for our Club as we look to get back to our roots.”

Sporting director Mladen Sormaz added: “Conor has earned this opportunity, putting his status as a popular former player to one side, we have seen first-hand the meticulous detail that goes into his planning and preparation for every training session which has led to improved performances on the pitch. Conor’s standards and principles are very clear and his desire to work with the academy and give young, exciting players their chance to develop is evident and equally, we are seeing some of the more experienced players in the squad starting to recapture form too. Our job is to now work with Conor to lay the foundations for a successful season."

Conor 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.”