AFC Wimbledon coach James Simmonds, who is on secondment from Chelsea, has lavished praise on the Blues' youngster Henry Lawrence.

The latter has completed a loan move to Wimbledon for the rest of the season, where he will be coached by Simmonds again.

The 19-year-old has signed for the entire League One campaign, with Wimbledon beating off competition from Wigan Athletic to secure the player.

Simmonds said on the club's website: "I've known Henry since he was knee-high! I coached him at Under-12s, Under-15s, and Under-18s. He is a very exciting player, and a good full-back, both defensively and in attack. Henry will add quality to the squad. I know that big clubs were after him, but we are delighted to have him here, and I'm sure he will flourish.

"Henry is versatile, he can play in midfield, and as he is comfortable with both feet he can play on the right and left side. Depending upon what formation we play, he can also fit in alongside the centre half if we move to a back three. He's a talented boy and a great lad. Henry is a hard worker and that will suit us with the culture that Robbo has created here."