Daniel aims to add the wow factor

WELCOME ABOARD: AΩthletic boss Lee Johnson greets his namesake Daniel.

Daniel Johnson’s talent could add a crucial extra element to Athletic’s attack heading into winter.

The 22-year-old Aston Villa squad member has been loaned to Chesterfield and Yeovil in recent times. and certainly catches the eye.

At Chesterfield he became a supporters’ favourite with his skills and eye for a telling, defence-splitting pass.

Even before Johnson had impressed for the Spireites in the richly entertaining 1-1 draw earlier this season, Athletic’s manager was well aware of his talent and almost made a swoop during the summer.

The loan of the Jamaica-born, London-raised player finally took place on Monday morning.

“I was on my way back home to London after being with Villa for the week, but once I knew Oldham were in for me I had no hesitation in coming here,” he said.

“I would have come earlier if I’d had the chance. I just want to play - hopefully until the end of the season, but we’ll have to wait and see what happens.”

There is little in Johnson’s game that suggests he will sit back and let others drive the side forward.

“I could do with adding a few more goals to my game while I’m at Oldham,” he said.

“They’re not exactly lacking in goal threats, but if Oldham want to keep up this positive momentum then keeping opposition defences on their toes is going to be really important.

“There’s a great vibe here and the environment is really positive. Some of the lads have told me all about how good a club this is to be at, so I’m looking forward to hopefully making a good impression.”