'˜We'll cope - Josh Scowen backs Barnsley to rally if captain Conor Hourihane leaves

Aston Villa are leading the race to sign the Reds’ talisman, who turned in another outstanding performance to help them overcome Leeds United on Saturday, with the Midlands club aiming to finalise a deal this week.

Many supporters are bracing themselves for the Irishman’s departure, and Hourihane’s fellow midfielder Scowen is adopting a pragmatic tone, while insisting that other players will step up if the Irishman leaves.

He said: “We are a good side and have only lost one player (Sam Winnall). If Conor does end up going, then someone else will come in and fill the void.

“We are a strong unit and whoever comes in, we will be fine.”

While Hourihane excelled in the fine victory over Leeds, several others shared the limelight, including the likes of Ryan Kent and Scowen. The hosts’ second-half performance showcased Barnsley at their vibrant best, according to Scowen, who believes it represented the template to follow in the weeks ahead.

He added: “It was a great game. To come back from one goal down in the first half, we battled well.

“We scored two quick goals after half-time and it was one of those games to remember.

“When all the team are playing with energy and getting forward and pressing as a team, that is when we are at our best.

“We created chances here and there from pressing and that is the way we want to play and will keep doing it.

“In a derby, the atmosphere is probably a little bit better. But we aim to play that way in every game.

“Sometimes, it doesn’t work out, but most of the time this season, we have done and that is why it has put us where we are in the league.”