Hill Confirmed As Reds Manager

Last updated : 01 June 2011 By Alastair Limb (tykesmad)

Keith Hill has been appointed as the new manager of Barnsley after being unveiled at a press conference at noon today.

Hill joins from League One side Rochdale and brings with him his loyal assistant David Flitcroft, brother of ex-Blackburn midfielder Garry.

The 42-year-old said upon his appointment in an open letter to the fans:

"I would like to introduce myself to the Barnsley supporters as a Manager with proven success who is young, ambitious and even more enthused for a greater success in my appointment as your new Manager.

Our previous success has been achieved by sharing a vision with the board, staff, players and the fans and my time with Rochdale AFC involved the challenge to change from perennial relegation strugglers to promotion candidates.

This was done by adopting a style of football that I would want to watch as a supporter. To achieve this, and due to very limited resources, we had to recruit and develop players within a football specific training programme, designed by myself and my backroom staff - this gave us the foundation to be successful on the pitch and the opportunity to realise saleable assets to balance the books.

The above can only be achieved with an incredible work ethic and togetherness from the Players, the Manager, backroom staff and the Board.

I am excited by this new challenge of replicating similar success for Barnsley Football Club in the Championship and it is a fantastic opportunity to develop a brand of football and build a team that will be likeminded in my values to be hardworking, enthusiastic, hungry, creative, dedicated, disciplined, organised and above all; have the will to win.

Our vision and planning for the new future will be a reflection of your passionate support for Barnsley Football Club. I sincerely look forward to receiving your vocal support and backing on match-days. In return, I will endeavour to give you a team to be proud of."