Promotion-chasing Sutton United boss Matt Gray expects an "extremely tough game" against a Barrow AFC galvanised by Phil Brown.

While the Bluebirds are hoping to get over the League Two safety line, in-form Sutton are out to further their bid for a second successive promotion.

They start the day in sixth position after three straight wins.

But Gray believes Barrow will give his side a real test at Holker Street this afternoon.

"The gap between the top and bottom this season is very thin," Gray said.

"You look at Barrow, and Phil Brown is obviously a very experienced manager and he certainly knows how to get football results.

"I know he didn't in his first few but then got a fantastic result against Forest Green and then a really good point at Salford.

"They're on the back of two terrific results. They've got somevery good players and gave us a tough test when we were at home, so this is going to be an extremely tough game for us.

"So much is at stake at the top end at the bottom. It will be a good game between two clubs playing for the points - very keenly contested I'm sure."

Sutton trained at Kendal Town yesterday ahead of the clash at the Dunes Hotel Stadium.

Gray, speaking in a club interview, added that Joe Kizzi and Will Randall will return after injury and illness, while late decisions will be made on the fitness of Harry Beautyman and Craig Eastmond.

Former Barrow frontman Richie Bennett will be in the south London club's squad.