David Dunn says Barrow AFC will have a “really exciting talent” on their hands if former Manchester United man Callum Gribbin hits the ground running at Holker Street.

The 21-year-old, who has joined the Bluebirds on a one-year deal, has shown a desire to make his mark in first-team football according to Dunn.

Gribbin, one of seven new faces at Barrow so far this summer, has plenty of pedigree having come through the ranks at Old Trafford alongside players like Marcus Rashford and Axel Tuanzebe.

Dunn has now challenged the attacking midfielder, who was with Sheffield United last season, to show he can thrive as Barrow prepare for their first Football League season for 48 years.

Dunn said: “I’ve been aware of Callum for a number of years now, from his time at Man United.

“He’s an exciting one, really. We fought off a couple of clubs to get his signature, which was pleasing.

“He feels he’s got to a point in his career where he needs to play.

“A lot of young players don’t test themselves until it’s too late, so fair play to Callum – he’s got to an age where he realises he has to go somewhere and try and get his career started.

“He’s a really exciting talent potentially – and I say potentially, because he’s got bags of ability, and it’s important the other side of his game comes along now.

“If it does we’ll have a real player on our hands.”

Dunn says the way Gribbin copes with the rigours of Barrow’s pre-season work will give him an insight into his readiness for hard League Two battle.

The manager added: “It’s probably the first time he’s not been in an academy set-up. We’ve got to challenge him physically and mentally and, from what I’ve seen, he’s trying hard.

“He’s putting the work in and the lads have taken to him – they’re pushing him as well.

“He’s probably never had a pre-season as tough as what he’s going to have over the next few weeks so it will stand him in good stead.”

Gribbin’s one-year deal includes the option of a further year.