Manchester United: Midfielder Ben Pearson extends Barnsley stay until the end of the season

Manchester United midfielder Ben Pearson has extended his stay with League One club Barnsley until the end of the season.

The 20-year-old midfielder, who joined the Tykes in January has impressed the club hierarchy, who have decided to extend his stay for a further three months.

Pearson has been impressive since his arrival in South Yorkshire, and has already made 12 appearances for the promotion chasing League One outfit. He also bagged his first senior goal during Barnsley's 2-1 win over Port Vale on January 31.

The youngster's performance has been outstanding and he has managed to make a solid impact in the heart of their midfield with ease. Pearson continued his impressive showing despite the change of manager with Lee Johnson replacing Danny Wilson.

The former Barnsley manager is a big admirer of Pearson and had praised the midfielder following an impressive performance on his debut for the Tykes back in January.

"You can't go gushing about these lads too soon, but he was excellent and hopefully this is just the start of a long and successful career in the game," Wilson said, as quoted by the Manchester Evening News.

Pearson was withdrawn during Barnsley's recent 3-0 win over Walsall after he complained of being unwell but is tipped to return to the team as they continue their quest to earn a chance at promotion. Barnsley are currently on a five-game winning streak and find themselves outside the play-off places only through goal difference.

United youth coach Warren Joyce has heaped praise on the young midfielder and believes that he is doing a great job for his loan club despite the club changing manager's midway through the season.

"Ben has really thrived at Barnsley and I think he's been doing a proper man's job. He looks an experienced player in that team," United Reserves coach Warren Joyce told United's official site.

"It's strange being in the dressing room when there is a change of manager and it can be difficult at any club to handle things like that but he seems to have adjusted well. In terms of the things we've talked about with him, it's about taking ownership and trying to be a leader of the group. I'm pleased with the way he's been trying to take that on board as it's crucial to the position he plays in," the former Hull City manager added.