New Barnsley boss Stendel to use local knowledge

The German was the surprise choice to replace José Morais as head coach, with the 44-year-old having no experience of management outside of his homeland.

Stendel, who has signed a two-year-deal, has brought in compatriots Andreas Winkler and Christopher Stern as assistant head coach and first-team coach respectively, but has pledged to work with the club’s remaining coaches.

And former Reds favourite and academy coach Bobby Hassell is likely to have increased involvement with the first team.

The former Hannover 96 head coach, who will officially start work at Oakwell on July 1, said:“It is important that the people here understand that I am not coming with a bunch of German coaches to change everything.

“I need the local guys, and I have already spoken with Bobby and I think he will have an important role in helping me within different areas.

“I have not worked in this league before, so I will look to gain as much knowledge from the guys inside the building as possible.

“This is a club that needs to work together and absolutely everyone can be part of this journey, we all have something to offer in this process and I want us to share our knowledge together.”

Ahead of his arrival in England, Stendel will build his working knowledge of the squad he is taking over and hold discussions with chief executive Gauthier Ganaye regarding likely targets and squad changes.

“It is important to have a good conversation with the people who are in charge,” he added.

“I have a certain idea about the team but there might be some changes to be made, but there will be a conversation with Gauthier regarding decisions to be made on players.”