Oldham Athletic boss Paul Dickov believes on-loan Norwich City midfielder Tom Adeyemi is one of his side's unsung heroes.

The 20-year-old has become an unlikely senior figure at Boundary Park during the injury absences of Dean Furman and James Wesolowski.

And Dickov was happy to sing Adeyemi's praises – especially after shepherded 18-year-old midfield partner Carl Winchester in Saturday's 1-0 win over Tranmere.

'Tom doesn't always get the credit he deserves,' said Dickov. 'It has been hard for Tom because he has played in the centre and also out wide. He has also had three or four different partners in as many games.

'Though Tom is only aged 20 and a kid himself, he looked after 18-year-old Carl Winchester who was playing alongside him. Carl grew into the game as it continued and that was down to the way Tom played.'

Adeyemi has been on loan at Oldham since August and is due back at Carrow Road on March 10.