Barnsley's highly-rated midfielder Brian Howard has revealed why he's happy to resist Premiership offers at the moment.

Ahead of today's FA Cup clash with Liverpool, Howard said: "I think I'm on the way up now and would love to pit myself against (Steven) Gerrard every week.

"I've had to grow up quick. I'm miles from my family and friends. This shows I can fit in anywhere and have a strong character.

"Obviously, I'd like to swap some things and be playing in the Premier League. But put it this way, I don't regret any decisions I've made. I thoroughly enjoy life and football.

"I live on an estate in a village outside Barnsley. Local kids knock on my door every time there is a sponsored walk or swim on at the local schools.

"I even had a couple knock for me and ask me to come out and have a kickabout. I have done a couple of times. It's OK in the street but I draw the line at going to the park, I'm not getting dirty!

"My next door neighbours have sons, they knocked once to ask for their ball back after it came into my back garden. I told them to just jump over the fence in future.

"Steven Gerrard can't really do that. He has to virtually seal himself off. And whenever he plays abroad in Europe or for England he seems to get burgled. That I don't envy."