He is only 18 and yet to complete a full season for Barnet but left-back Elliot Johnson has established himself as one of the first names on the Bees team-sheet.

So it came as no surprise last week when it was confirmed he’d signed a new long-term deal at the club.

Johnson made 25 appearances for the Bees last season and his mature performances earned him praise from Barnet head coach Edgar Davids.

And the young defender admits the Dutchman’s belief helped him quickly settle into the first team.

He explained: “It has been a huge 12 months. At the start of last season I didn’t really expect to get many first team games.

“But I broke into the team and part of why I settled into the side is the belief the staff and Edgar Davids had in me.

"He put his faith in me and chose me for every game, so that made me comfortable playing in the side.

“I have cemented my place at left-back now so I am just looking forward to getting more games under my belt.”

When asked about his new contract, he replied: “The club is going in the right direction and the squad looks good. I am just pleased to be here.”