Former Aston Villa midfielder takes over at Barnsley after ex-Walsall boss sacked

The 34-year-old, who made more than 100 league appearances in claret and blue between 2017 and 2022, has been given the reins in South Yorkshire with the Tykes currently 10th in League One. 

Hourihane was part of Dean Smith’s side that were promoted to the Premier League in 2018-19, playing 90 minutes in the play-off final at Wembley. 

It comes off the back of Clarke’s sacking. His Barnsley side are eight points away from the play-off places in the third-tier of English football with 10 games remaining in their season. 

Clarke was in charge of the Saddlers from May 2019 until February 2021, overseeing 76 matches before he left for then League Two rivals Port Vale. 

Speaking after his sacking at Barnsley, their sporting director, Mladen Sormaz said: "Darrell is someone I respect and have enjoyed working with, and I’d like to thank him for his efforts this season. 

"Whilst a list of replacements has been identified, we will take some time to ensure the next appointment is the right one with a focus on playing identity, returning to high pressing and attacking football. 

"We believe that Conor can help to create enough bounce to keep us fighting for the top six until the end of the season. We will also be working in parallel to have a new Head Coach in place over the summer.”