THE SECRET SCOUT

Our scout is a top football expert who attends matches each week searching for the next star. He’ll bring you his verdict in Sportsmail.

DANIEL JOHNSON

AGE: 23 CLUB: PRESTON NORTH END POSITION: MIDFIELDER VALUE: £1M 2015-16 APPEARANCES: 44 GOALS: 9

WHAT HAS HE GOT?

Johnson is a left-sided midfielder who is aware of the need to break forward and support his front men. As a consequence, when he runs his marker back towards goal he leaves space behind for his fellow midfielder to receive the ball. Playing in a midfield three gives him the confidence to make those forward runs. It is his determination to seek out scoring chances that catches the eye and in 2015 he scored 15 goals, a terrific total when you consider today’s packed defences and the reluctance of many midfielders to get ahead of the ball. He passes sensibly and unselfishly. When I saw him against QPR recently I liked the way he attempted to take the pace out of the game by initiating passing movements in the moments after his team had scored.

WHAT DOES HE NEED?

He could be a little stronger in the challenge. He does not lack physicality and sometimes he would be advised to keep his cool. Having said that, you have to be careful not to quell a player’s competitive spirit. He should also hold his position sometimes but once again that could negate his strengths.