Last updated at 15:07, Thursday, 29 December 2011

Workington Reds boss Darren Edmondson is holding crunch talks with Hartlepool United over the future of Paul Johnson.

The defender has starred on loan at Borough Park this season and Edmondson is keen to keep the towering centre half for at least another month.

Talks with new Pools manager Neale Cooper have already begun ahead of Johnson’s current deal at Workington ending on Saturday.

Edmondson is confident a deal can be struck, despite signing Johnson from Mick Wadsworth, who was sacked earlier this month.

The 40-year-old said: “Paul has worked wonders since he joined us and we’re keen for him to stay.

“He’s been a pillar at the back for us and definitely strengthened our defence.

“His physical style and height have put off a number of strikers in this league and we know he can continue to develop with us.”

Johnson has 18 months remaining on his contract with the League One side and has expressed an interest in stopping in the non-league with Workington.

Edmondson said: “I have talked with Paul and he wants to stay. He’s learning all the time about what it takes to be a footballer here.

“He’s picking up tips from the likes of Kyle May and Lee Andrews, which can only benefit him.

“Hartlepool sound like they are willing to let him stop, but I still need to talk with Neale and their coaches about making that a reality.

“I hope to be able to announce the deal later this week, but time is running out as we need Paul signed on before his deal ends on Saturday.”

If the deal goes through, Johnson will be in line to start against Tommy Cassidy’s Blyth Spartans team on Monday.

First published at 11:25, Thursday, 29 December 2011
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk