Workington Reds boss Darren Edmondson has been praising Pools defender Paul Johnson as he prepares to play the last game of his loan spell at Borough Park.

The 19-year-old has been in superb form for the West Cumbrian outfit, playing eleven games in the heart of defence alongside the experienced Kyle May.

"Paul has been fantastic for us," Edmondson told the Times and Star.

"He's grown as a player and learned more about the game than playing meaningless Reserve games.

"It's been a pleasure to aid his development. He returns to Hartlepool an improved footballer and shows what effect the non league can have on the development of young talent."

Johnson will turn out one more time for the Blue Square Bet North outfit when they host Worcester on Saturday before returning to Victoria Park.