Barnsley have brought Daniel Stendel back for a second spell as head coach.

The German, 52, has signed a two-year deal with another year in the Reds’ favour, after an agreement was reached with his current club Hannover96.

Stendel led the Reds to automatic promotion from League One in 2018/19, setting a club points record and going unbeaten all season at Oakwell in the league. He was controversially sacked the following October following the sale of several key men and a poor start to the Championship season.

Stendel has since had brief spells at Hearts in Scotland and AS Nancy in France before returning to previous club Hannover as coach of their second team whose season ends on Saturday.

He will now replace Conor Hourihane who led the Reds to 15th in League One before leaving by mutual consent.

Chairman Neerav Parekh told the club website: “Daniel’s return is about results on the pitch and identity. During his first spell, the club stood for high intensity football, belief in young players and a team that supporters could fully connect with.

“That season produced outstanding performances, an unbeaten home league campaign and a group of young players who grew together and went on to reach the highest levels of the game.

“We want to re-establish that same connection between the fans, the town and the football club - a Barnsley side that plays with energy, bravery and pride. Daniel understands what this club means to people, and his values align completely with the direction we want to take moving forward.

"He demands relentless effort and a desire never to give up from his players - values we stand firmly behind as a club and a town.”

Daniel Stendel added: “I am absolutely delighted to be back at Barnsley Football Club. This is a place that means a great deal to me, and I’m really looking forward to reconnecting with old friends while also getting to know new faces around the club and in the town. I can’t wait to get back to work and start this next chapter together.”