DerbyshireLive gives you the latest Derby County news, including what the former Rams captain has to say about coaching. Conor Houirhane has indicated that he is ready to take the next step in his coaching career as he prepares for life beyond Derby County.
The former Aston Villa midfielder was one of six players released by the club at the end of the season following their promotion back to the Championship. Hourihane played an important role on and off the pitch, scoring the winner in a 3-2 victory over Burton Albion, and while he did not start any games in the final weeks, his leadership was crucial.
But now the former Republic of Ireland international is preparing to make the transition into coaching and management. He is set to undergo an LMA course this summer and has completed his UEFA A and B badges. He has also had help from Derby as he told the Athletic : “The more I’ve become obsessed with coaching, I’ve transferred everything onto my laptop. “I’ve got sessions, notes and presentations. For example, I have information on set plays and how I see my team with or without the ball, explaining how I will press in a particular formation.
“I use a software called Sportscode, where I get games off one of our (Derby) analysts. I will clip up patterns of play that I like so I don’t forget them. I’ve watched a lot of Arsenal’s set plays this year because they’ve been great. It’s just a constant clipping portfolio of all aspects of the game. I’ve built up a big bible.”
Hourihane has also seen several managers at close quarters, including Unai Emery of Aston Villa, Rob Edwards of Luton, and Russell Martin of Southampton.
The former Republic of Ireland international has been linked with a transfer to Barnsley as a player/coach, although the Tykes’ quest for a new manager continues after favourite Daniel Stendel remained in Germany with Hannover 96, as announced today.
“I’ve been to see Russell a couple of times and got to know him,” Hourihane adds. “I’ve seen Rob Edwards, and it was through my agent who arranged appointments with coaches and sporting directors. I question them why they appoint certain managers. What traits would you like to see?
I’d like to know how that method works. I’m picking people’s brains, being a sponge, and shaping myself into a coach.”
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