RYAN Johnston hailed the influence Barrow Raiders head coach Paul Crarey has had on his career from rugby-mad youngster to professional player.

The promising Raiders scrum-half has been coached by Crarey from his days playing mini-rugby at Dalton to joining the professional ranks at Craven Park.

And Johnston is in no doubt Crarey, who has signed a two-year contract to stay as Barrow head coach, can keep taking the squad forward in the Betfred Championship.

“Paul has been a massive influence in my life,” said Johnston. “He’s the only coach I’ve really played under and he’s given me everything I know.

“It’s good to still be able to play under him because you know exactly what he wants and you feel more comfortable playing under a coach who has got the knowledge he has.

The likes of Gareth Hock, the PNG lads, and Jake (Spedding) and Deon (Cross) are going to strengthen the squad massively - and with the players we have already got, we could be a team to watch this year.

“We’ve got the players and the coaching staff, and if the club wants to go in the right direction then I think Cresta is the man to do it for us.”

Johnston has extended his stay at Craven Park for a further two years as well, and will be joined by former Furness Raiders half-back partner Jake Carter.

The 20-year-old is excited by the prospect of linking up with his old under-19s team-mate again.

“It’s been great,” said Johnston. “I went through Furness Raiders with Jake and, as half-backs, you build a bond together.

“You know exactly what people are doing. It’s great to see him signing and I’m sure his future is bright as well.”