The Reds are delighted to announce the appointment of our new U23s Head Coach.
Barnsley Football Club can confirm that Martin Devaney will be the new Under 23s Head Coach ahead of the upcoming Professional Development League campaign.
The former Reds winger, who played for the Club between 2005 and 2011, has moved into the role following Paul Harsley’s departure to Manchester City.
Devaney has been on the coaching staff at Barnsley for three years and previously held the position of Under 18s coach prior to his appointment with our Under 23s side.
The 38-year-old also took charge of one Under 23s fixture last season, stepping into the role as Harsley oversaw first team responsibilities on an interim basis.
The former Reds winger was naturally delighted to take up the position.
He told us: "This is a huge honour for me, to step up as U23s Head Coach. I've been at the club now on a coaching basis for around three years full time and I've enjoyed my work immensely.
"There's a real pathway at Oakwell, our younger players know there'll be opportunities there for them. And they only need to look at what John Stones is doing right now with England to see that.
"I'm looking forward to stepping up this season and working with the new first team coaching staff as we look to continue to help players bridge that gap from development level football and league football."
Chief Executive Gauthier Ganaye commented: “The Club felt Martin was ready to step up into this role following on from his previous good work within the U18s. He’s shown an expression of desire and commitment by taking on this role. Martin will be working closely with Bobby (Hassell) and Daniel (Stendel) to build a bridge between the U23s and first team.”
Academy Manager Bobby Hassell feels the appointment was obvious, telling us: “I’m pleased that Martin has been appointed as the Head Coach of our U23s. He’s been in and around the setup for three years now and he’s fully in tune with what is expected in terms of that position.
“It was a natural promotion really, following Paul Harsley’s departure and I’m sure that Martin will bring a lot to the table as we look - as a club - to continue developing our younger players."
Everyone at Barnsley Football Club would like to wish Martin well in his new position. You can keep up to date with how he and his team get on this campaign here on our website and across our social media platforms with regular match updates and coverage!
