John Hendrie's first foray into management could have come too soon, according to Barnsley chairman John Dennis.

The former Bradford City player, pictured, was yesterday sacked for failing to take the Tykes back into the Premiership at the first time of asking.

He stepped out of the playing ranks to replace Danny Wilson in the Oakwell hot-seat last summer following Wilson's departure to Sheffield Wednesday, but the Scot was unable to revive the club's fortunes in his first taste of life as a manager.

Barnsley have been in mid-table all season, with the highlight of the campaign a place in the quarter-finals of the FA Cup.

And Dennis said: "There have been some excellent performances, but far too many others which have been totally unacceptable.

"He was possibly forced into management sooner than he really wanted."

Hendrie said: "He pulled me in and just told me that it wasn't working out and relieved me of my duties."

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