RICHIE Barker is confident he can continue to get the best out of hot-shot striker Ryan Lowe – because he has been there and done it himself.

The new Shakers manager enjoyed some of his best seasons in the latter stages of his career, and is hopeful there is plenty more to come from his leading man Lowe.

“Lowey played a big part in me getting the job, with his goals and also what he said,” said Barker. “He scored 28 goals last season and he’s one of those players who is a bit like myself. I had my best days in terms of goalscoring when I was 32-33.

“Hopefully, Lowey can have another year like last season “I always say to young lads making their way in the game to ‘just stick in there’, because you never know what’s going to happen. I went through some bad times in my 16 years as a professional footballer, but you always think next season could be mine.

“I scored 23 and 24 two years in a row when I was aged 32 and 33. I see a bit of Lowey in me “If I can help him, that’s great. I think that’s why I get a certain amount of respect from most of the players because I’ve been through what some of them have been through – and it wasn’t that long ago.”

Another senior head who Barker will rely on is experienced centre-half Efe Sodje, a player who is actually older than the manager.

“Efe’s useful in that I don’t have to spend all my time in the dressing room,” he said.

“I can pass a message through him and I know it will be delivered pretty quickly, especially in terms of keeping a couple of people in line. He’s good for that.“