Barnsley: Gerhard Struber pledges to do all he can to keep Reds in Championship after being appointed as new Oakwell boss

The 42-year-old Austrian succeeds Daniel Stendel and arrives at Oakwell with top-level experience, having led Wolfsberger AC in this season’s UEFA Europa League.

Struber has signed a contract until 2022 at Oakwell, with the option of a further year.

He said: “I am extremely happy and proud that everything has worked out and I would like to thank the board for giving me this opportunity. The last couple of days have been extremely exciting and I am ready for the challenge to do everything we can, to keep this club in the Sky Bet Championship.

“Now is a time for everyone to pull together, the board, the management team, the squad, the wider club staff and of course our passionate supporters. If we can do this together, we can keep this club in this league. I can’t wait to start working for this club and town, and especially to meet you all at the game this weekend.”

Struber will take charge of the Reds for the first time this weekend, when they travel to Ewood Park to face Blackburn Rovers.

The Reds have said there will be a further announcement on the make up of Struber's backroom staff, with news of what will happen to caretaker manager Adam Murray also expected.

Reds chief executive Dane Murphy said: “Gerhard is a young coaching talent that any side would be pleased to have.

“The club had pursued him in the past as his tactical approach and track record of developing burgeoning talent appeals to the core philosophies at Barnsley Football Club.

“Gerhard made it quite clear that he believes in our project and has confidence that the club can remain in the Sky Bet Championship under his stewardship, which is the club’s main objective for this season.

“This was a long, arduous process that tested the patience of many working to better the club. In the end the labour has bore fruit and we are anticipating an enticing brand of football with Gerhard at the helm.”