Adam Hammill's form at Barnsley has attracted the interest of other clubs, according to caretaker boss Paul Heckingbottom.

Hammill, who returns from a three-game suspension for tomorrow's game at home against Southend United, has helped to spark Barnsley's revival since joining in November. The winger, 28, is now being monitored by other clubs, with Lee Johnson's Bristol City one of the teams reportedly interested.

Heckingbottom told the Chronicle: "Adam knows he's wanted here but his performances have attracted interest.  It's a footballer's prerogative. We only signed him on a short-term deal so he has earned the right with his performances to speak to whoever he wants and try and get the best possible contract, not just in monetary terms, but for him and his family.

"What Adam does know is that he is loved here and appreciated here. He's respected among his peers and that has all got to come into his decision-making. Credit to him. He's earned the right to have a selection of clubs looking at him but it will be up to him who he chooses.

"The club have given him the opportunity, done right by him, and he's rewarded them with the performances. It seems to fit and work for him here."

Hammill has scored five goals in 20 games since joining and also netted the decisive penalty at Fleetwood to send Barnsley to the Johnstone's Paint Trophy final. Heckingbottom says his impact has been huge.

He added: "There is no doubt that Adam has been a catalyst. "I spoke to him regularly about it when he started and the way he played and the way the fans took to him. He gave us a spark and he was a leader for us. People looked to him, not just the players but the fans as well and he delivered. But that catalyst has kicked everyone else on now and it's down to Adam and the players who have taken that on board. They have taken confidence from the results and now we have got a team of leaders. It will make selection harder but it will make the team better."