MYSTERY surrounds the absence of Barrow AFC assistant manager Gary Simpson – who has not been seen at Holker Street for the past three weeks.

Simpson, who came in as number two to Paul Cox last year, has not been seen in the dug-out since the 1-0 win at Macclesfield on February 15.

He was not involved in the games against Rochdale – in the Lancashire Senior Cup – Torquay, Sutton or the pair of fixtures with Tranmere, with Cox leading the pre-match warm-ups in his places.

Cox said he was unable to comment on the issue, with no official statement being made by the club on the matter.

It is unknown if former Lincoln City manager Simpson is still employed by the club, whether there is any chance he will return to his assistant manager’s role, or if his absence is due to a disciplinary issue or something else.

All Cox would say after Tuesday’s 2-1 National League win over Tranmere was that it was an internal matter, with further details only set to be divulged when it is resolved in its entirety.

“It’s something that I can’t comment on at this minute,” said Cox. “It’s an internal matter, but hopefully myself or the club can keep everybody up to date with that issue when and if it is resolved.

“We want to be 100 per cent certain that the information we give everyone is correct. At this present time, it’s something myself and the club can’t comment on.”