Report: Jack Ross rejects Barnsley for St Mirren stay

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Barnsley had hoped to hire St Mirren boss Jack Ross as their new manager at Oakwell but the search for Paul Heckingbottom’s replacement goes on.

Who do Barnsley turn to now?

The Championship strugglers had hoped to hire a replacement for Paul Heckingbottom before next Tuesday’s relegation six-pointer with Burton Albion. But it appears one of the names right at the top of their wishlist has rejected the chance to take over at Oakwell.

According to the Scottish Sun, Barnsley were given permission to speak with the highly-rated St Mirren manager Jack Ross, who has done a remarkable job in 16 months at the Scottish championship side.

They were in danger of relegation to the third tier when he took over but are now cruising at the top of the table, 14 points clear of Livingston.

But it is understood that, after meeting with Barnsley chiefs on Wednesday, 41-year-old Ross has sensationally ruled himself out of the running and will now stay in charge of St Mirren.

“We are delighted with the news that Jack remains committed to St Mirren Football Club,” chief executive Tony Fitzpatrick told the Scottish Sun of Ross, who could now be rewarded with a new contract.

“Jack has built something special here and has really pulled everyone together in the right direction. It is excellent news for the club and all focus is on trying to meet our targets for the season.”

You can see why Ross would not want to leave the Buddies, with his side on the brink of a league title and promotion back to the Scottish Premiership after three years away.

But his snub comes as a blow to Barnsley, who had identified Ross as an ideal replacement for Heckingbottom after the manager surprisingly departed for Leeds United days after agreeing a new contract.