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Swansea City, Leeds United’s Championship opponents, have chosen Michael Duff as their new manager, following the departure of Russell Martin to Southampton.
Duff had two years left on his contract at Barnsley and had been offered better terms and a contract extension prior to interest from Wales.
Last season, he led the Tykes to the League One play-off final, which they lost to Sheffield Wednesday in the 123rd minute after playing the majority of the game with 10 men.
The Whites host Swansea City at Elland Road on November 29 before facing them again on Tuesday, February 13 – the same week they travel to Plymouth Argyle.
Duff has signed a three-year deal with Swansea, having won the League Two title with Cheltenham Town and maintaining the club’s third-tier status before making the switch to Oakwell.
“Michael has a proven track record of galvanising a group of players into a collective unit, and he has consistently outperformed expectations at his previous clubs,” said Swansea City chairman Andy Coleman.
“Every conversation I had with him only reinforced the view that he is exactly the type of leader we need here at Swansea City. He is a proven winner, both as a player and as a manager, and I’m confident he will bring that mentality here.
“I have faith in his ability and belief in the Swansea Way, and he also has the ability to adapt within games to drive results.” This is a results-oriented company. Our seat at the table is important to all of us, and we are committed to providing Michael with all he requires to succeed.”
“As a board, we’d like to thank Michael for all his efforts over the last year,” said Barnsley chairman Neerav Parekh. We’d also like to thank him for his professional demeanor when Swansea triggered the release clause, and we wish him the best of luck in his future endeavors.”