Brian Wilson made his comeback from a two-month layoff for Barrow AFC at Bromley last Saturday and manager Ian Evatt believes the veteran defender will now be able to lead by example.

Wilson, the oldest member in Evatt’s mostly young squad, signed from Oldham Athletic during the summer but was only able to make two appearances before injuring his calf against FC Halifax Town in August.

After building up his fitness with the under-21s, the 35-year-old was given his first-team return towards the end of the first half at Hayes Lane when he was brought on for Josh Granite in what was a tactical switch.

Evatt said: “He’s a very good player and we’ve missed him. He’ll help us because he is a good guy and an experienced pro that leads by example.

“Hopefully, he’ll be able to stay fit and healthy help us to kick on from here.”

Another player Evatt will be keen to see progress is winger Erico Sousa, after his encouraging debut against Bromley, following his loan move from Accrington.

The Portuguese looked lively throughout down the right and marked his maiden Bluebirds appearance with a stunning long-range strike in the second half.

“He’d only had four or five days with us and he hadn’t played much football, so he’s going to get fitter and sharper and he’s going to be a major threat to the opposition,” Evatt said. “He’ll only get better.”