Barrow boss Andy Whing has highlighted the importance of MJ Williams ahead of Saturday’s clash with Crawley.
Williams, who recently returned from injury, is seen as a vital component of the team both in midfield and defence.
Barrow's number 18 made a return to the side in a 5-0 loss to Blackpool in the EFL Trophy. He followed his return with a full 90-minutes in the Bluebirds' 1-0 win over Crewe Alexandre.
The Barrow boss emphasised the experience and versatility Williams brings to the side, however he stopped short at confirming another 90-minutes from the defender.
Whing said: "I think he just showed last week how vital he is to us wherever he plays so we’ll just have to be mindful of the fact that he hasn’t played a lot of football but he came through last weekend okay so fingers crossed he’ll be good to go Saturday.
"MJ is really vital. I think he just shows how good he was at the back end of last season.
"I know he went back into a back three and done really, really well there, but he played a few times in midfield for us and I thought he was excellent last week as well.
"He’s a really important player for us, great experience, and we need him on the pitch and hopefully he can stay fit now for the rest of the season.”
MJ Williams underwent successful hernia surgery in mid-July 2025 and has made a return to a struggling Barrow side.
Alongside Williams' return, Whing offered a fitness update for other vital players to his side.
He said: "MJ (Williams) and Isaac Fletcher were back from injury, we’re fit.
"Rekeem Harper is back in and around the squad as well, and obviously Ben Whitfield is back from suspension, so we’ll be a lot stronger this week hopefully.”
With Williams fit and back in the squad, Barrow will be hoping to secure another positive result at Crawley, which will be their first back-to-back victories this season.
Whing is hoping for more consistency in midfield, and throughout his team, as the Bluebirds looks to build momentum.
Williams' leadership and work rate are expected to be key as Barrow aims to nullify Crawley's attacking prowess, back up last week’s result and continue their push up the table.
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