Barnsley FC Weekly Round-Up: Hourihane’s Graft Plan, Jalo’s Blow & Payton’s Heartbreaking Reveal
If you thought the end of Barnsley’s season might bring a bit of quiet, think again. It’s been a week of big admissions, bigger rebuild hints, and one gut-wrenching personal story that puts it all into perspective. Hourihane wants action, the squad’s getting chopped, and the fans? Still waiting for proof that change is more than a press release.
The Summer's Too Long – So Hourihane's Not Waiting
New boss Conor Hourihane reckons the break between campaigns is a bit too generous – and he’s planning to call the squad in early for summer sessions. Why? Because he’s not here to faff about. He’s laid out a plan to get this team fitter, sharper, and drilled in his image. Recruitment has started early too, with Hourihane admitting he’s tapping up a few ex-teammates who fit the bill.
???? Source: Yorkshire Post – Hourihane Eyes Fast-Track Summer Fix
Retained List Reveals Ruthlessness
The retained list dropped – and with it, a clear message: if you’re not part of the vision, you’re out. Cosgrove, McCarthy, Benson, Marsh, Lewis, and Pines all shown the door. Pines signed off with a classy goodbye to fans. On the flip side, Flavell and Humphrys have been offered new deals, while youngster Connor Barratt has earned a contract extension after breaking through late on.
???? Source: Yorkshire Post – Transfers, Exits & Familiar Faces
???? Source: Barnsley Chronicle – Pines Bids Farewell
Jalo Set for Lengthy Spell Out
Just when it looked like Fábio Jalo was finding his feet in the first team, injury strikes. The 19-year-old has undergone surgery on a knee issue and is set to miss pre-season and possibly the start of next term. A big blow for a lad who’d started turning heads – and a setback Hourihane could do without as he reshuffles the forward line.
???? Source: Barnsley Chronicle – Jalo Sidelined After Surgery
Andy Payton’s Brave Disclosure
A moment that hit home this week: Andy Payton, former Barnsley striker and local lad, has revealed he’s living with dementia, which he links to thousands of headers from his playing days. It’s a sobering reminder of football’s darker legacies. Payton’s courage in speaking out adds to growing calls for more to be done for ex-pros battling life after football.
???? Source: Barnsley Chronicle – Payton’s Tragic News
Final Whistle: A Big Summer Needs Even Bigger Proof
Rebuilds. Resets. Promises. We've heard them all before. And yet, here we are again – with Conor saying the right things, showing early intent, and fans daring to believe (cautiously). But belief needs backing. With key players out, some gone, and others yet to arrive, the club has a long summer ahead to prove this isn’t just another case of déjà vu down Grove Street.