Conor Hourihane says his Derby County spell is finishing on the right note after the club’s retained list confirmed the captain’s time at Pride Park was over.

Hourihane played a big part in Derby’s return to the Championship, but he will not get to represent the club in the second tier. He is one of six senior players to be leaving at the end of their contracts, alongside Joe Wildsmith, Korey Smith, Martyn Waghorn, Dwight Gayle, and Scott Loach.

As well as skippering the side, Hourihane contributed five goals and eight assists in 41 League One outings this season. Across his two campaigns, the 33-year-old played 98 times in total for the Rams, and he believes he’s departing in the best way possible.

“Captaining the club to the Championship was a big honour for me. Getting promotion was my aim when I signed and finishing on that note seems right.

“I wish the club nothing but the best moving into next season and hope it can keep moving forward in the right direction. Thank you Rams.”

Hourihane may not have to wait long to find a new side with the Irishman linked to a player-coach role at Barnsley. They’re on the hunt for a new manager after sacking Neil Collins just before the play-offs, in which they lost to Bolton over the two-legged semi-final.

Derby County have made a triumphant return to the Championship, and we want you to join us to celebrate their achievements.

Our Man At The Rams, Leigh Curtis has penned a 48-page special souvenir edition of the Derby Telegraph which is completely dedicated to the remarkable change in fortunesof the club.

A club that has gone from the brink of extinction – to a glorious promotion.

Leigh follows the journey of the season and how a David Clowes owned Derby side managed to rebuild from the Ashes after narrowly missing out in the first season under the new owner and manager Paul Warne.

This season has had drama with highs and lows galore – all culminating in those incredible scenes on the pitch after the game against Carlisle United.