Mark Cooper believes Niall Canavan’s experience and know-how can be vital for Barrow AFC during the run-in.

The January deadline-day signing has made two starts so far since his move from Bradford City late in the window.

Canavan’s second start coincided with a clean sheet against Stevenage last time out.

Cooper believes the ex-Bantams captain and another new signing, the returning John Rooney, will be important figures over the remaining 15 games.

“They’re good characters,” he said.

“His performance last Saturday was very good.

“If he can keep that level up we’ll be really happy.

“I’m sure he will; he’s a good pro, he’s a leader, he’s experienced, so there’s no reason why not.

“Rooney is Rooney – an infectious character and a good player.”

Barrow are out of action today with Storm Eunice having forced Exeter to postpone this afternoon's game in Devon.

It means the fifth-bottom Bluebirds must watch rivals try to make progress in the survival battle this afternoon.

Cooper's side will hope teams around them do not close AFC's five-point gap above the relegation zone.

Bluebirds boss Cooper said after last weekend’s showing in the goalless draw with Stevenage that the display had reassured him over their prospects for the rest of 2021/22.

He added: “The only thing that will stop us if we get too many injuries which has been the theme during the season.

“If we can keep the majority fit, the nature of this league is it’s very inconsistent…everybody’s beating everybody and taking points from everyone.

“When it’s our time we have to make sure we take the points; if it’s not three it’s one, and we make sure the scoreboard keeps ticking.”