Barrow AFC will be boosted by the return from suspension of experienced midfielder Jason Taylor for their match at Aldershot Town tomorrow.

Taylor was forced to sit out last Saturday’s 3-0 defeat at home to Eastleigh after picking up his fifth booking of the season, despite the fact he was acting as peacemaker, in the previous match at Ebbsfleet United.

The 31-year-old was captain in the absence of Josh Granite that day and his leadership skills were sorely lacking in the middle of the park against the Spitfires, as AFC were unable to rouse themselves after falling behind.

Bluebirds manager Ian Evatt said: “I think it’s fair that we missed him last week.

“Jason has been immense for me, not just as a player, but as a leader. When he’s stepped in to be captain, he’s set the right example for everyone in training.

“He’s been a real credit to this team – there were a few people in pre-season, when I signed him, who raised their eyebrows, but I think he’s shown everybody he’s indispensable at the minute.”

Evatt was also able to give an update for two players who have recently returned from long-term injuries to boost his squad.

Striker Rhys Turner made his first appearance for three months against Eastleigh and soldiered on after taking a knock in the first half, while centre-back Matt Elsdon has stepped up his recovery in the past week.

Evatt said: “Matty played for the under-21s for 70 minutes at Ramsbottom and he came through that fine.

“He’s getting fitter every day, although it will take a bit of time to get him to where he needs to be.

“We’ve barely had him available this season, so it’s like having a new player, and the same goes for Rhys Turner – he got a nasty knock on Saturday, which he had to miss the first couple of days of training for this week, but he’s been able to join in from Thursday.

“It was great that he toughed it out for us last week and he’s going to be a big player for us.”