The Tykes have paid compensation to Cheltenham for the former Hartlepool and Mansfield midfielder who did an excellent job at the Robins last season despite relegation. Clarke has signed a two-year contract with the option of a third and takes over from Neill Collins, who was sacked before the end of the season.

Barnsley will be hoping he can promote them to the Championship after they missed out on a return to the second tier this season with defeat to Bolton in the playoffs as the Rams finished second in the table.

Barnsley will be hoping he can promote them to the Championship after they missed out on a return to the second tier this season with defeat to Bolton in the playoffs as the Rams finished second in the table.

Clarke said: “I’m absolutely delighted, can’t wait to get started. I’m proud to be managing this football club, I’m really looking forward to it.

Clarke will be assisted by Martin Devaney, who will be assistant head coach, and it remains to be seen if Conor Hourihane will be joining them at Oakwell.

The former Derby skipper, who was released at the end of the season, had been tipped to join the coaching set-up at the club he captained. And Barnsley fans on social media are hoping he will soon be arriving.

One fan said: “Welcome to the town. Please announce Hourihane as player/coach. His experience would be invaluable.”

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