BARROW AFC have appointed Micky Moore as their new permanent manager.

He has signed a two-and-a-half year contract – running until the end of the 2019/20 season – to take over from the departed Paul Cox.

Moore, Cox's former assistant, has stood in as interim manager for the past six matches, overseeing one victory, three draws and two defeats.

He will lead the side for the first time on a permanent basis at Sutton United in the National League on Saturday.

Moore was chosen over a number of 'qualified candidates', with Barrow owner Paul Casson and managing director Andrew Casson feeling he was the right man to lead the club forward.

He will now look to appoint an assistant and other member of a back-room team.

Managing director Andrew Casson issued the following statement on Moore's appointment: “Barrow AFC are pleased to appoint Micky Moore as the next manager of Barrow AFC.

“Micky has signed a two-and-a-half-year deal to be the successor to Paul Cox. The board are very excited about the changes that Micky has been able to implement in such a short time-frame, much of it done on his own.

“Over the course of the month, I have seen dozens of CVs come across my desk, and the chairman (Paul Casson) and I have spoken to several of the more qualified candidates, but at the end of the day, we like what we have seen from Micky and think what he brings is necessary for the next stage of the club’s growth.

“He also has an excellent working relationship with Paul Ogden, which would have been critical for any potential manager.

“Micky was asked to make changes to the style of play to produce more exciting football for supporters and give the players a chance to flourish. He has done very well implementing those changes and we see that in the attitude and commitment of the players.

“The final results haven’t gone our way, but outside of a lacklustre display against Torquay, the commitment has been excellent and the performances are improving.

“Off the pitch, Micky has a very honest approach to the game, which values players regardless of their place in the squad.

“However, he does not hide the truth when players or staff need to improve. This can be seen in greater discipline at the training ground and an excitement in the players that they get an opportunity to build their strengths.

“He has also displayed a resilience in the face of so many injuries, reacting with patience when many would quickly shift to blaming or complaining.

“ We are excited to have Micky officially take over as manager of the football club and think the move will bring stability and confidence to the players.

“ Micky’s next tasks are to find an assistant manager, build out his staff and, with Paul Ogden, present a 90-day action plan to the board that shows where the club needs to improve, both in terms of the squad and off the pitch.

“ This is another step in the journey and I hope the supporters get behind Micky and give him the backing he deserves.”