Barnsley: Feel-good factor continues after Pearson re-signs

Pearson had been on loan with the Reds since January 8, with his second month’s deal expiring on Sunday.

But Reds head coach Lee Johnson has moved swiftly, and the talented 20-year-old, who has featured 12 times for Barnsley so far in his time in South Yorkshire and impressed all and sundry, will now be sticking around for the rest of the campaign.

It is a further timely boost for the Reds, who are just two points off the play-offs after a flourishing run in recent weeks, which has seen them secure five consecutive victories without conceding a goal.

Barnsley, in seventh place in the League One table, having been as low as 19th after their 5-1 defeat at Crawley on February 14, have not conceded a goal in over seven hours of football, with Johnson speaking about his desire to keep Pearson ahead of Saturday’s latest victory over Walsall.

Not Johnson has got his wish, with Pearson - who also attracted interest from elsewhere - staying put at Barnsley, who visit his hometown club Oldham at the weekend.

Speaking before the win over the Saddlers, Johnson said: “We are hoping to keep him longer. But at the end of the day, he is not our player and we have to abide by whatever Manchester United want.

“But certainly, the player is enjoying himself and has done very well. Listen, there will be other people interested in him as he’s a good player.

“He’s proved whatever people have expected him to prove at this level. Of course, we’d love to keep him and will do our utmost to do that.”