JESS Horsley, who was the manager of the now defunct Barnsley FC women’s team, has joined Barnsley Women’s FC as assistant manager.

Horsley, who is a Reds fan, was in charge of the Oakwell team as they gained back-to-back promotions then stabilised in the fourth tier last season.

But Barnsley FC decided to shut down their women’s team this month after being told by the FA they would have to play all games on the main Oakwell pitch or at another ground due to the 3G and showcase pitches not meeting their regulations – which would have hiked up costs.

Horsley has now been named assistant manager to Craige Richardson at Barnsley Women’s FC who were originally affiliated with the Oakwell club before breaking away in 2018.

They currently play in Sheffield at the Olympic Legacy Park but are hoping to return to Barnsley in the future. They play at the same level as the Oakwell side did, but in Midlands Division One of the National League.

Horsley said: “It wasn’t an easy decision.

“There is a lot of politics between the two clubs. But that is nothing to do with me.

“When they broke away, I wasn’t involved with any Barnsley club.

“If Barnsley FC hadn’t disbanded the team, I wouldn’t have that decision to make.

“It was a hard decision because there has been a bit of conflict between the clubs. But I wanted to make the decision for me and be a little bit selfish.

“It’s been a difficult couple of weeks. I have had a think about what I want to do. I was thinking about having a break but I am in the routine of being at a club and doing pre-season.

“I don’t think I’m ready for a rest from that.

“I spoke to a couple of people but Barnsley, even though they play in Sheffield at the moment, they train in Barnsley and they are still a hometown club for me. It massively appealed.

“I spoke to the manager and chairman, talked about the players coming in and aims for this next season. They are aspiring really high. That’s what I want. I am excited to get started.”