OUTGOING Barnsley chief Conor Hourihane remains 'really open-minded' over his next role in football - and has no plans for a break either.

The 35-year-old will leave the Reds by mutual consent after the home game against Stockport County on May 2, just a year into his role as permanent head coach.

Despite an up-and-down time at Oakwell, he insists it has not put him off being a number one again.

On his future, he said: "I'm really open-minded. I don't want to take a break. I want to keep working.

Barnsley defender Georgie Gent. Photo: Tony Johnson.

placeholder image — Barnsley defender Georgie Gent. Photo: Tony Johnson.

"I think I'm not ready to stop working or take six months out or whatever that looks like.

"I really want to reflect, re-evaluate and see opportunities that come my way. I am really open to head coach roles, of course, because ultimately I want to be a head coach.

"I am also really open to different coaching roles on the ladder. Whether it's working under someone a little bit more experienced that I can gain valuable information from; I'm really open to loads of different scenarios, to be honest - just to become better and more improved.

"Over the next couple of years, do I want to come back to being a head coach - whether it's now or in a few years? Absolutely, because that's what I see myself as.

"I see myself as the front guy that's in control of my work (ultimately)."

Meanwhile, Hourihane says he is ready to dispense with advice regarding Barnsley's retained list or any other related playing matters if he is asked by the Oakwell hierarchy before the end of the season.

The Reds chief, who confirmed it was his decision to restore Kelechi Nwakali and Georgie Gent to the first-team squad on Tuesday - a decision he made in the interests of the club as opposed to himself - added: "Yes, absolutely - 100 per cent. If I'm asked for any information or any kind of opinion on any player or any scenario, absolutely.

"Of course, I'll give my very professional opinion. And that's what I'm doing right now in terms of how the squad looks and individuals in and around the squad that may have not been over the course of the season as much what they would like.

"So that's me being really professional and me showing my care towards the club.

"And if I'm asked for any input on anything, of course, I will be there for them."