Barnsley boss Lee Johnson is convinced by the quality of Dan Crowley, despite sending him back to Arsenal.

Johnson said Crowley is one of the most talented 18-year-olds he's ever seen, better than former Arsenal, Chelsea and current Roma left-back Ashley Cole.

He said: "I think that Dan's had a fantastic time here, we've really enjoyed working with him. He's probably one of the best, or the best, or most talented 18-year-olds I've ever seen.

"Obviously I came through the ranks at Arsenal as well, so there's players like Ashley Cole that I include in that, players that have had very good careers. For me, it was fantastic to work with him, really enjoyed it, really appreciative to Arsenal.

"I think he had four or five really good effective games for us that showed his quality and where he could be.

"He had a couple of injuries, he was called up by England, which stunted the starts he could have had, but I've got nothing but positive thoughts about him as a lad and as a player.

"Of course, as a coach I'd love to work with him someday in the future, because I believe at some point this boy will play for the England national team, if he can iron out the little bits that will come through maturing and playing in a different level.

"I'm disappointed to lose him, but it's the law."