Brian Howard has said that he hopes Barnsley's decision to appoint him as captain on a permanent basis will end speculation over his future, while Keigan Parker will definitely not be arriving at Oakwell from Blackpool.

Barnsley failed to agree personal terms with striker Parker after the Seasiders accepted a £200,000 bid for the Scottish forward.

Tykes midfielder Howard has reportedly attracted interest from several rival clubs this season and even Premier League outfits, but he insisted that he is part of manager Simon Davey's long-term plans.

The 24-year-old left-footed playmaker told the club's official website: "You always hear about rumours and gossip, but there is nothing whatsoever happening.

"The club have really signalled their intent by giving me the armband. Simon has put his faith in me and wants me to be an integral part of the future of this club.

"It's a massive honour to be captain of any club, but to be skipper of a side that is doing so well and consistently in the top half of the Championship is a huge thing for me.

"My family and I are very, very proud."

Howard was named the South Yorkshire club's Player of the Year last season as they avoided relegation back to League One. This term he has scored nine goals as Barnsley consolidate; they are currently in 13th position.

Reds boss Davey said that negotiations with Parker were dead in the water.

"In any negotiation process there is always a difference in opinion. It's safe to say that Keigan's opinion and the club's differ," he commented.

"We made him an offer which we believed was appropriate for an unproven Championship striker.

"He has turned this offer down - and that is now the end of the matter."

TeamTalk / Eurosport