Black captained Oldham's reserve side last season

Barrow have extended the loan of young Oldham Athetic left-back Paul Black until 5 January.

The 18-year-old, who is currently injured with a hamstring strain, initially joined The Bluebirds on a one-month loan deal.

"I've played two games so far and I'm really happy with how it's gone so far," Black told BBC Radio Cumbria.

"I spoke to my manager [John Sheridan] and asked if I could extend the loan and I'm delighted to sign for longer."

Black has captained the Latics' reserve team and was a standby for the England under-18 squad in November 2007.

I honestly believe we can do well this season and that's one of the reasons why I've signed for longer Paul Black

"I'm only 18 and it is a good experience to be playing here, it's a good standard," Black said.

"In the reserves, some players may take it easy but at Barrow it's a competitive league which is more physical. It's a lot different from what I've been used to."

Black is hoping to emulate his Oldham team-mate Chris Taylor who had a loan spell with Barrow early on his career and is now a regular in the Latics' first-team.

"Chris came here and is Oldham's main player now," he said.

"It will do me good, it's something I needed and I'm sure it will make me a stronger player. The managers are great with the lads and there is a good atmosphere in the dressing room,

"I honestly believe we can do well this season and that's one of the reasons why I've signed for longer."