Barnsley boss Lee Johnson believes Paul Digby’s loan move to Ipswich Town is just what the youngster needs.

East Anglian Daily Times: Paul Digby watches on at BurnleyPaul Digby watches on at Burnley (Image: PAGEPIX LTD 07976 935738)

The 20-year-old moved to Suffolk at the weekend on a loan deal until the end of the season, having played just three games for the Tykes this season following a summer trial with Premier League giants Manchester United,

He burst onto the scene as he made his first-team debut as a 16-year-old but failed to establish himself under a number of managers at Oakwell and has made 25 appearances in the last five years.

Despite starting his career as a midfielder, Ipswich boss Mick McCarthy looks set to use the youngster as a defender, with Barnsley boss Johnson admitting the move is probably best for all parties.

Johnson told the Barnsley Chronicle: “I think he’s got a big name in youth football. Ipswich asked for him to come in for a couple of days on trial and behind the scenes they set up a deal potentially but at the moment it’s a loan for them to have a look at him.

“I don’t think he’s under any pressure at the moment to go into their first team but it’s one that suits all parties at the moment.”

Digby was at Burnley to watch the Blues in action on Saturday and could be involved in tomorrow’s FA Cup clash with Portsmouth.