Phil Brown says Barrow AFC’s loyal fans have convinced him of the passion in the town for the club to keep growing.

The Bluebirds take on Northampton Town today in their last match of the 2021/22 season (Dunes Hotel Stadium, 3pm).

Big decisions are looming, both regarding Brown’s future and those of several players.

But the manager, who said things had “got closer” after talks this week regarding his own situation, said he has already been won over by the support he has both received and witnessed in his short time in south Cumbria.

A good crowd is anticipated today with AFC having offered free tickets to under-18s and emergency services workers.

Brown said it adds to the good vibes he has felt since arriving at Holker Street.

“The club’s been different class with regards to that – the promotion side, positivity side, media side of it,” he said.

“Things have been nothing but positive. For a club that’s been languishing in the bottom four for the majority of the year, the support I’ve had has been second to none.

“The players have supported me, senior management have, the board have, but more importantly the supporters have put bums on seats and got behind the team.

“They’ve got behind every demand I’ve made or asked of them.”

While Barrow round off their season on home soil today – against a visiting Cobblers side who will be promoted with victory – Brown says the recent travelling support underlines the supporters’ loyalty.

“People might think I’m talking crazy here, but the 88 amongst 7,800 at Exeter on a Tuesday night, when you’ve got Swindon on the Saturday – and probably the same 88 went to Swindon as well – it’s phenomenal,” he said.

“That’s what I call passion, commitment, level of support.

“If we get that kind of stuff in the close season because I’ve put pen to paper I’ll be delighted.

“If it’s not there, you can’t nurture it. If it is, you can make it grow. That’s the most important part.

“That’s the audition I’ve had – to recognise that these people are serious and passionate about their football. That’s been brilliant as far as I’m concerned.”

Striker Aaron Amadi-Holloway could return from injury this afternoon, while Brown will make a decision on the fitness of Connor Brown and Patrick Brough.