A 'GROWN-UP' Nick Anderton is helping to bolster the Barrow AFC back-line, according to captain Danny Livesey.

Anderton signed on at Holker Street on a permanent deal in the summer, having had two loan spells with the Bluebirds from Preston North End over the past two seasons.

The 20-year-old was released by the Lilywhites following the end of the 2015/16 campaign and AFC manager Paul Cox was quick to offer him the chance to return on contract to Barrow.

Anderton took up the option, and has played every minute of every game so far in a successful start to the National League season, helping AFC keep three clean sheets in their last four games.

Livesey was quick to praise the efforts of the youngster, whose discipline has noticeably improved – his booking against York City last month being only his second of the season, after he fell foul of referees on several occasions last year – and whose skill levels have stepped up a level as well.

He said: “Nick has really grown up this year. He was having lapses of concentration last year and he has worked to get rid of them.

“He has come on loads and he seems to have turned into a really good defensive full-back. That can only benefit him going forward.”