Hibernian are delighted to confirm the signing of Darnell Johnson on loan from Leicester City until the end of the season.

The highly-rated 20-year-old offers added competition at centre-back following the news that Ryan Porteous has been ruled out for the rest of the season, while he can also be deployed at right-back.

Darnell has been capped by England at every age group from Under-16 to Under-20 and was part of the side that won the Under-19 Euros in 2017 – featuring alongside the likes of Mason Mount and Ryan Sessegnon.

At club level, he’s worked his way through the ranks with the recent Premier League winners since joining their Academy at the age of 10 and played for the first-team throughout their pre-season preparations before being rewarded with a new three-year deal.

The godson of former Three Lions striker Emile Heskey, Darnell was excited by the opportunity to continue his development at Easter Road.

He said: “I've had a great grounding at Leicester City and with the England youth international sides but now I'm really hungry to prove myself at first-team level.

"I've done my research and I know about Hibernian's reputation for giving young players a chance.

"I hope I'm the next one to make a name for myself here. I can't wait to get started in training on Friday, meet everyone and do whatever it takes to try and win a place in the team."

CLICK HERE TO WATCH ON HIBS TV

The move is subject to international clearance.