Paul Heckingbottom has left his role as Barnsley's head coach to take over at their local rivals Leeds United.

He has been joined by his assistant Jamie Clapham, a former Leeds player, as well as sports scientist Nathan Winder and analyst Alex Bailey. Paul Harsley, the under 23s coach, is expected to be in charge for Saturday's derby match against Sheffield Wednesday at Oakwell. 

Barnsley announced on Friday that Heckingbottom, 40, from Royston, had signed a new 12-month rolling contract with the club on improved personal terms but Leeds are thought to have triggered the release clause in that deal and will now pay the Reds compensation. 

A statement read: "The club are shocked at Paul Heckingbottom's desire to leave, having agreed a new contract with Barnsley Football Club last week following the completion of the January transfer window, where the board of directors worked tirelessly along with Paul to secure their targets, resulting in a successful window. This left the club optimistic in a turnaround in form and a strong end to the 2017/18 campaign as we battle to retain our position in the league. The club want to place on record their thanks and best wishes to Paul Heckingbottom and his coaching team."

Chief executive Gauthier Ganaye commented: "Yes, it was unexpected. Yes, it has come during an already complicated period. Yes, it will make things more difficult short term, but our club is full of resources and it is certainly not dependent on one man alone. I'm asking everyone from the players, employees and our loyal fans to come together as we have an important game on Saturday."

Heckingbottom had been in charge of his hometown club for 105 games since taking over two years ago yesterday, winning 37, drawing 28 and losing 40 including the last three.  

Under his guidance, the Reds won the Johnstone's Paint Trophy and the League One play-offs, both at Wembley, then last season he led them to their best finishing position in the Championship since 2000 of 14th with the highest points tally in that time of 58. 

This season has been more difficult as Barnsley are now just one place and one point above the relegation zone having won just one of their last 16 matches in all competitions. Leeds are 17 points further up the table and seven away from the play-off places in tenth. 

Heckingbottom has previously expressed his dislike for Leeds, having grown up with many of their fans in Royston while supporting Barnsley. He had hero status at Oakwell having won promotion as a player in 2006 then a decade later as head coach. 

Leeds sacked Spanish manager Thomas Christiansen on Sunday.