BARROW AFC boss Paul Cox says he still has an excellent relationship with substitute striker Ross Hannah.

Hannah, who scored 23 National League goals for Chester last year before a summer move to Holker Street, has found himself confined to the bench in recent weeks.

With only two goals to his name from five starts and six substitute appearances so far this term, the 30-year-old has found himself behind Byron Harrison and Richie Bennett in the AFC pecking order.

Both have netted six times so far in the National League and they have established a strong partnership up front, with Hannah restricted to coming off the bench and trying to make an impact.

He did play 85 minutes in the Lancashire Senior Cup match against Bury last week – netting a hat-trick with a clear message to Cox that he still has his scoring instincts.

Cox is well aware of that and was glad to see his attacker on form, saying they still have a good bond.

“I was joking with Ross about the chance he had before he scored, when he hit the bar, that he needs to open his eyes when he is heading the ball,” Cox said. “Once again, he shoved the words right down my throat and scored a sublime header for the first goal.

“I was joking with him before the game about whether he can go out on loan or if he is available permanently. Ross Hannah is going nowhere – he wants to stay, get in our team and cement a place. I want to keep him.

“The relationship with him is excellent, and hopefully he will score the goals for the first team.”