BRADFORD Park Avenue manager Mark Bower admits his players have struggled in recent weeks but feels he has a side full of leaders who are determined to turn the situation around.

The Horsfall men host Leamington tomorrow on the back of a disappointing Easter which saw them succumb to defeats against Stockport and Chorley.

Asked about the importance of captain Nicky Wroe to his side, while the team battles injury and confidence issues, Bower said: "There's a lot of experience in the squad. It doesn't necessarily come down to one player. To be honest, I could have five or six captains out on that pitch.

"We had a chat in the dressing room on Monday after the defeat to Chorley and there were a few players that put their opinions across because we know we can do better."

One player who has been performing well recently though is striker Frank Mulhern. The 21-year-old has netted three times in his last three games.

Bower admitted that circumstances at the club have benefited the youngster, saying: "Oli (Johnson) has been suspended and Adam Boyes is carrying a knock.

"If those two were available, I'm not sure Frank would have played over the Easter weekend.

"But he is a mature, strong lad. He's still learning and he can improve but he's shown what he's all about recently.

"Frank's a good player and he has a good future ahead of him in the game if he continues in the way he has done."

Avenue need to have everyone playing well though, as their chances of making the National League North play-offs are fading with every passing defeat.

Bower struggled to pinpoint exactly why his team have lost confidence but said: "It can affect players from the Premier League all the way down to non-league.

"We've got to look to get ourselves out of this rut and it could just be one spark that gives people a lift.

"We need to work hard and work smart when we're not playing fluently. It's too easy to run around like headless chickens."

Avenue's defeat to Leamington in the reverse fixture mirrored their recent struggles.

Bower said: "We let in a really poor goal there and conceded the early initiative. The key at the weekend is to be strong defensively and not concede early.

"If we do that, we know that we'll always create chances to try and win the game. One result could get us going again."