Barnsley setback as target Ross opts to stay in Scotland

ST MIRREN manager Jack Ross last night pulled out of the running for the vacant head coaching position at Barnsley '“ and has elected to stay at the Scottish Championship high-fliers.
Paul Heckingbottom.Paul Heckingbottom.
Paul Heckingbottom.

Ross had been sounded out by the Reds hierarchy about suceeding Paul Heckingbottom at Oakwell, but is now expected to sign a new deal with the Buddies after reaffirming his commitment to the club.

It is the latest knock-back for Barnsley, who saw an approach to speak to Wycombe manager Gareth Ainsworth rebuffed earlier this week.

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Ex-Alloa manager Ross, 41, only signed a new three-year deal last August – after being targetted by Dundee last summer – and he is now set to sign second improved contract in the space of six months.

The Reds have been linked with several other candidates including Swansea Under-23 chief Cameron Toshack as they seek to bring in a permanent replacement for Heckingbottom ahead of the vital relegation six-pointer with Burton on Tuesday.

Another name figuring prominently in the betting is former Bastia head coach Rui Almeida, with the Portuguese currently a free agent, while current caretaker head coach Paul Harsley is also another option.

Rotherham United defender Joe Mattock faces a race against time to be fit for tomorrow’s League One showdown at fellow promotion-chasers Shrewsbury Town, managed by ex-Millers full-back Paul Hurst.

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Mattock, an impressive ever-present during the club’s fine 12-match unbeaten streak, came off during Tuesday’s 3-1 home win over Oxford United with a tight hamstring and will be assessed today.

Manager Paul Warne said: “Joe is touch and go. We are hoping he will be on the grass on Friday.

“We pulled him off on Tuesday as a precaution. If there is any risk, I won’t play him on Saturday.

“He has been a big part of how we play. He gives us great balance. He is a good attacking left-back and he has a good relationship with (left winger) Joe Newell.

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“I am hopeful he will be available, but I am not honestly sure whether he will be.”

Left-sided central defender Michael Ihiekwe came on for Mattock in midweek and operated at left-back and will battle it out with Ben Purrington for the position, should Mattock fail to make tomorrow’s game against league leaders Shrewsbury.

Purrington is a recognised left-back, but has found opportunities hard to come by for a number of months, while being hampered by hamstring trouble for a considerable spell.

The former Plymouth Argyle defender, 21, has not appeared since being injured in the first half of the 2-0 loss at Blackburn Rovers towards the end of September.