BY his own admission, Conor Hourihane displayed a 'bit of emotion' after Barnsley's recent derby loss to Doncaster Rovers.

It should not necessarily be seen as a bad thing. It was done for the right reasons.

At the end of a frustrating and strength-sapping three-game week, which culminated in his depleted, tired side slipping out of the play-off picture in tepid fashion on derby day, emotions were running high.

Hourihane questioned the validity of claims that Barnsley's top-six hopes could ever be treated seriously after what happened in the winter window.

Barnsley head coach Conor Hourihane. Photo: Tony Johnson.

placeholder image — Barnsley head coach Conor Hourihane. Photo: Tony Johnson.

Displaying a clear sense of exasperation, he went further and warned supporters not to expect a play-off finish next season either.

Speaking to the press ahead of the Easter programme, Hourihane admitted that emotion got the better of him.

But what is clear is that just as the 2025-26 season has been a difficult one for the Reds in an era of retrenchment at most lower-division clubs, it promises to be more of the same next term at the club.

Barnsley came out with a statement on Monday to deny reports that their playing budget would be around £3.5m – among the lowest at League One level – in 2026-27.

Barnsley chairman Neerav Parekh (second from right).

Asked about the statement, Hourihane said: "The club obviously felt like it was important to put something out.

"They've said their piece and hopefully it's brought clarity to everyone and to the fans. And I think now everyone needs to move on from this.

"The club have put the budget in place. And I'm working off what's given to me, ultimately.

"In terms of a lot of (other) clubs, I think people have mentioned the one down the road who are really struggling big time (Sheffield Wednesday).

“So we're very lucky to have the club that we have."

A significant part of the remit for Hourihane when he was handed the full-time coaching reins last spring was to develop players for future sell-on value and to cultivate a playing style, which he has done in fairness.

The other key bit - and one which supporters are mostly interested in - is improving league position.

Being able to achieve all three within tight financial parameters represents a major challenge.

Hourihane continued: "Of course. You really want to develop (players) and people to learn on the job.

"But at the same time, you need to look after the club and the league position, And finding that balance is difficult.

"I think we've done OK this season at times. Young players have learnt on the job and made mistakes at certain times.

“But we're in a very fortunate position with some of the young players at the same time. We've obviously gone in that direction, which has been key for the club.

"We're one of the teams in the league that have got the most games (left this season). Hopefully we can use it to our best way in terms of giving minutes to players that need developing. And on top of that, win games in football."