Defender Elliott Johnson has signed a new two-year deal to remain with Barnet until the end of the 2016/17 campaign.

The 20-year-old Edgware-born left-back was imperious last season and made 42 appearances as the Bees won the Conference on the final day.

Speaking to the club website, he said: “I am chuffed. I think that the club is going in the right direction and I am happy to commit my future to them. 

“I think the manager has put his confidence in me and reassured me this year that even after bringing in some new players to improve the squad he is happy for me to keep that left-back position as long as I keep my performances up.” 

He continued: “Coming from the Youth Team, having those years in the Conference has definitely toughened me up and got me used to playing the men’s game. 

“Off the back of last season and with the new signings that we have brought in we have a lot of confidence and everybody is going to be pushing for the top of the table rather than scrapping at the bottom.  

“I have been here for quite a few years now having come through the Youth Team and gotten into the first team and I am happy to be able to keep on playing here.” 

Having signed his first pro deal with the Bees May 2012, Johnson made his Football League debut against Torquay United in November of that year. His first goal followed in a 3-2 defeat by Accrington Stanley in March 2013.

Established as a first-team regular after making 26 league appearances as the Bees were relegated to the Conference in 2013, Johnson made another 30 outings as Edgar Davids - and latterly Martin Allen’s - side failed to win promotion back into the League at the first time of asking.

Johnson’s contract was originally extended at The Hive in May when Barnet took up the one-year option on his existing deal in May.