DEFENDER Lee Unsworth could be set to make a first team return when Bury take on Bournemouth in a crunch match tomorrow.
As well as Unsworth, striker Paul Barnes is also back in the frame after boss Andy Preece vowed to ring the changes on the back of two disappointing defeats at Millwall and Notts County.
Preece knows a win against Bournemouth at Gigg is vital, not only to boost the Shakers confidence but to keep up with the leading pack.
"It will be a test of character after two defeats," said the Bury manager. "But we've not lost a lot of ground and I'm not going to be too down about it. It's a matter of going on another run and winning the next two home matches to make up for it."
Right back Unsworth and Barnes both came through a practice match on Wednesday (hastily organised after the scheduled reserve game against Oldham was called off due to a waterlogged pitch) and Preece will not be scared to throw them straight back into the first team.
Unsworth's recovery from strained ankle ligaments is particularly timely as his inclusion would free Chris Billy from the right back role enabling him to move into midfield.
Preece's hardest choice will be to choose his strikers. He must pick two from himself, Ady Littlejohn, Baichung Bhutia, Lutel James and Barnes.
My guess is Littlejohn and Preece, possibly with James on the right of midfield.
Darren Bullock won't play. He suffered a twinge earlier this week and won't be included in the squad.
Preece's interest in Manchester United striker David Healey is over. The 21-year-old Northern Ireland international has gone on a month's loan to Dutch team Fortuna Sittard.
Kick off at Gigg Lane tomorrow is 3pm.
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