Allen: Rowley cut out to be future Chesterfield captain

The 19-year-old has become a first team regular under Allen, who had planned to send him out on loan earlier this season.

Speaking after Saturday's 0-0 draw at home to Havant and Waterlooville, Allen sang the praises of his young midfielder.

"Rowley is a quality player," said the boss.

"Sometimes defensively he needs to do a bit better, in the final third."

Allen says looks are deceiving with Rowley.

The manager sees something in the teenager that could make him a leader for the club further down the line.

"He weren't happy with some of the things that happened to him last year, but as a person off the field he might look meek and mild, but when I speak to him one to one he's got full opinion," said Allen.

"I see him one day as a captain of this football club. He's got something about him.

"There's more grit to that boy than meets the eye."