The news of Barrow AFC turning down an approach by AFC Fylde for manager Ian Evatt during the last weekend has been met with delight from the club's supporters.

Like the Bluebirds, Fylde had their match last Saturday postponed due to the rail chaos caused by a fatality near Milton Keynes, as their opponents Sutton United were left stuck at London Euston.

While the game at Mill Farm would have been going ahead, if it hadn't have been called off, the Coasters sacked manager Dave Challinor after an unexpectedly poor start to the campaign that has left them fourth-from-bottom in the National League.

In what is his first managerial appointment, Evatt has transformed the Bluebirds’ fortunes in the 16 months he has been in charge, with his side currently fourth in the table after winning their last seven games.

There had previously been speculation of his former club Chesterfield and Rochdale being interested in his services, but this was the first time someone had formally approached AFC.

A club statement said: “Barrow AFC can confirm that over the weekend we received an approach from AFC Fylde for our manager Ian Evatt. The offer was rejected by the club and after speaking with Ian, he is 100 per cent committed to Barrow.

"Ian is extremely loyal and honest and would like to put on record he had no interest in speaking with Fylde.

“Ian and his team have worked extremely hard over the last 15 months to get us in this position and in doing so has assembled a great group of players. He has the unequivocal support of the board and we all believe we can achieve great success this year.

“The numbers coming through the turnstiles has massively encouraged the club as a whole, so let’s now turn our attention to The FA Cup on Saturday and support our manager and his team.”

The reaction from Barrow's supporters that Evatt will be staying put has been universally positive.

That includes long distance runner Chris Thompson, who tweeted: Great news! Ian Evatt has created a culture within and around the team we all crave to have and be involved in within sport. Create this platform for athletes and they will achieve great things. Barrow AFC making the most of his leadership is a joy to watch."

Sean Kitchen said on Facebook: He's working wonders here at Barrow, so why should he want to give up on what he's started. Best manager we've had in a long time."

Dave Penny added: They won't be the last club to try and poach Ian if we keep this run going. Good on him for sticking with us - top man."