Rovers sign Premier League youngster

Last updated : 24 November 2008 By Matthew Jones
Tranmere Rovers have today completed the loan signing of Middlesbrough defender John Johnson until December 31st.

20-year old Johnson is a defender who can play at right-back or centre-back, and Ronnie Moore has recruited the player due to Football League regulations which state on-loan Stoke defender Ryan Shotton must return to his parent club at the end of his current loan deal, which expires within the next week.

Johnson, a product of the successful Middlesbrough academy which has also produced the likes of England internationals David Wheater and Stewart Downing, made his Premier League debut for Boro earlier this season against Chelsea, his only appearance for the club to date.

The youngster will be available straight away to play for Rovers, meaning he comes into the squad to face Scunthorpe tomorrow night.