And following a brief move away to Nuneaton Borough, the vastly experienced former Hereford, Morecambe and Bristol Rovers man has re-joined the Blues.

“It’s great to have him back,” said Brown.

“We didn’t want him to go but there were reasons behind that which haven’t quite panned out.

“He did well for us when he was here and he will again bring added quality and experience to the squad we have.”

Stanley, 36, watched the Blues’ 3-0 Lancashire FA Trophy exit on Wednesday night – only a second defeat in a superb eight-game run which has lifted Brown’s men into the BetVictor North-West promotion frame.

And the return of the midfield-cum-defender, who found the demands of travelling back to the Midlands with Nuneaton too great a barrier, will increase the competition for places in Brown’s squad as they look to maintain their challenge.

“When you’re winning games, teams are always looking at your players,” Brown added.

“Having Craig back will stand us in good stead and with Oscar O’Neil on his way back from injury it strengthens my hand and will keep everyone on their toes.”

The Blues don’t have a fixture this weekend but are back in action next Tuesday night with a trip to Marine in the Integro League Cup first round.