Dec 21,2024
Former Republic of Ireland midfielder Conor Hourihane has announced his retirement to take up the post of assistant head coach at Barnsley.
The 33-year-old, who joined the club for a second time during the summer but has made only two appearances, will work under Darrell Clarke as they attempt to drag the club back into the Sky Bet Championship.
Hourihane made more than 580 club appearances for Sunderland, Ipswich, Plymouth, Barnsley, Aston Villa, Swansea, Sheffield United and Derby, and was capped on 36 occasions by his country.
He told the Tykes' official website: "I have loved every second of my time as a player at all the clubs I represented.
"The two Wembley victories with Barnsley and getting promoted and playing in the Premier League for Aston Villa are moments I will remember forever, and I am grateful to so many people, starting with my parents, who allowed me to come to England at 16 years of age.
"My intention was to play, but a combination of not feeling I could perform to the standard I expected and the amazing coaching opportunity that Barnsley have provided has meant I have come to this decision, and I am excited to become a full-time assistant head coach to Darrell at Oakwell."
Hourihane, who made his international debut in 2017, last played for Ireland in the 3-2 win over Armenia in the Nations League in September 2022. He scored one goal for Ireland, the winner from a free-kick at home to Georgia in March 2019.
