Barnsley FC legend and ex-Leeds United and Rotherham United boss eyeing return to coaching
Barnsley legend and former Leeds United and Rotherham United boss Neil Redfearn is eyeing a return to coaching.
The 59-year-old is arguably among the most recognisable figures in Yorkshire football, boasting connections to a host of the county’s clubs.
As well as being a Barnsley icon, he plied his trade with the likes of Doncaster Rovers, Bradford City and the now-defunct Halifax Town.
He ventured into coaching post-retirement and is best-known for the time he spent blooding youngsters at Leeds.
After leaving his role as manager of Sheffield United Women in 2023, Redfearn took on a backroom role at Oldham Athletic and spent time coaching in Bradford City’s academy.
A return to senior management eventually materialised in January, when non-league outfit Farsley Celtic brought him on board.
However, he had walked into a club in turmoil and his Celts tenure proved brief.
Redfearn has now signalled his intention to return to coaching, posting on LinkedIn: “I’m a former professional player (sixth-highest world appearance-maker) experienced coach and elite developer of talent and now seeking my next challenge in either first-team or academy football.
“I’m now open to roles where I can drive both immediate success and long-term player progression - whether that’s within a first team setup or shaping the next generation in an academy.”
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It now remains to be seen what the future holds for Redfearn, although it is hard to imagine him being out of work for long.
He may prove particularly appealing to a club keen on promoting from within, having cultivated a reputation as an astute developer of young talent.
Redfearn served as the head of academy at Leeds during a period in which the likes of Sam Byram, Lewis Cook, Alex Mowatt and Charlie Taylor came through the ranks. All four later featured under him when he landed the first-team manager job.