Barnsley get their man from France

He joins on June 12 from another club with coal mining connections, Racing Club de Lens, from northern France, where he has been director of marketing and international development.

In the past, he has also been responsible for all football administration operations, including player contracts and international and domestic transfers.

Ganaye said: “Coming from a mining area, I know what a club like Barnsley FC means to the community and fans. I understand the mining culture – people are modest, hard-working and loyal and I can assure you, this is how I will conduct myself as a Barnsley FC representative.”

Reds chairman Maurice Watkins said: “We believe that with the all-round experience he has gained at Racing Club de Lens, Gauthier will prove to be an excellent acquisition for Barnsley FC and will very quickly play a significant role in the running and development of the club.”