Former Barnsley head coach Conor Hourihane is in line to link up with new Leicester City manager Russell Martin, according to reports.
The 35-year-old departed Oakwell at the end of the season after achieving a disappointing 15th-placed finish in League One. The decision was made before the end of the campaign, with the Tykes announcing a deal had been reached by the two parties to mutually end his two-year contract in April.
Speaking at the time, chief executive Jon Flatman said:
“After honest conversations between the board and Conor, it was felt that the best course of action for both parties would be to pursue a fresh start ahead of preparations for the 2026-27 season.
“We are now looking to ensure a smooth transition between Conor and our new head coach through to the end of the current campaign.”
This brought to an end Hourihane’s second stint at the club, with his first as a player between 2014 and 2017. The former Republic of Ireland international achieved incredible success on the pitch, captaining the club to promotion to the Championship in 2016.
Assistant Role Beckons
It appears as if Hourihane is set for an immediate return to the dugout, albeit in an assistant capacity. According to journalist Pete O’Rourke, the ex-midfielder is set to join forces with new Leicester boss Russell Martin.
Understand former Barnsley boss Conor Hourihane is being lined up to join Leicester as assistant to new manager Russell Martin. #LCFC pic.twitter.com/2niOKVXHgG
— Pete O’Rourke (@SportsPeteO) June 17, 2026
The 40-year-old was named as Gary Rowett’s successor earlier this week, signing a three-year contract. He is looking to rebuild his reputation following his disastrous spell at Scottish giants Rangers, where he was sacked after just 17 games last October.
For Hourihane, this represents an opportunity to join a club which is likely to challenge at the top end of League One as he looks to continue his personal development. Despite recently being linked to the vacant managerial position at Salford City, it appears as if a move to the East Midlands is now on the cards.
Hourihane Smart Choice For Martin
This seems like a make-or-break appointment for Russell Martin. Although he has a promotion to the Premier League with Southampton on his CV, he still found himself cast aside by the Saints following a dreadful start to the season in the top flight.
His dismal spell at Ibrox has severely dented his reputation and on the face of it, Leicester does seem like a risk. Like Rangers, there will be little patience afforded in the opening months of the upcoming campaign and fans will expect them to challenge for the League One title from the off.
Bringing in Hourihane could prove to be a masterstroke for the former Swansea City boss. His experience in the dugout at Oakwell will be one that Martin can draw from, especially because the young coach will know the division far better than he does.
Although Barnsley arguably underachieved last season, this would be a very smart appointment from Leicester.