ACCRINGTON Stanley's Jonathan Smith has a message for manager John Coleman: I'm ready whenever you need me.

The Reds central defender admits he has been boosted by his month-long loan spell with Conference North outfit Barrow.

Smith, who was loaned out to the Cumbrian outfit with team-mate Steve Flitcroft shortly after turning full-time has impressed Bluebirds' boss Lee Turnball. So much so that he was handed the captain's armband last weekend when skipper Graham Anthony was sidelined with injury.

And Smith admitted his confidence was sky high after a string of man of the match performances, capped by a header in their 1-1 draw with Nuneaton last Saturday.

"I've played five games and got man of the match three times, so it's been great for my confidence," the 28-year-old said.

"Although I was only made captain because Graham was out injured, it was a great honour.

"But I'm just happy to be playing games because I hadn't featured much since my injury at Bournemouth last December.

"But with still training full-time with Stanley, I'm really getting the benefit.

"I feel much sharper physically and mentally and the loan spell has definitely given me more confidence."

And that is why Smith would be happy to slot back into the Reds' line-up if he was ever handed a recall.

"John Coleman's probably not going to get much chance to see me play for Barrow, but hopefully he's read good reports about me," he said.

"If the shout does come back from Accrington, I will jump at it.

"It does feel different training with the side then not being involved on match days.

"But, having said that, I've enjoyed the games I've played in at Barrow and my loan spell in general.

"They're a good set of lads and there's a decent standard of football in Conference North.

"All I can do is carry on playing well and, if I'm needed at Stanley, I'll be ready."

At the moment, however, Barrow are eager to extend the loan deals for both Smith and Flitcroft.

But when their first month is completed on Saturday, the duo could be recalled at any time should an extension be agreed.

Meanwhile, Lutel James hasn't given up hope of playing his part in St Kitts and Nevis' 2006 World Cup qualifiers.

The Stanley striker pulled out of travelling to be involved in Saturday's game against Trinidad and Tobago and Wednesday's clash with St Vincent and The Grenadine next Wednesday to concentrate on the Reds' promotion push following a good start to the season, while his girlfriend is also due to give birth in three weeks.

However, St Kitts face Mexico in October, and James hopes to be considered for that game.

On the transfer front, manager Coleman's plans to bring in a central defender on loan may have to be shelved for around two weeks, while talks to make a new permanent signing are still ongoing.