CHRIS Lucketti will face his toughest competition yet for the prize he has monopolised for the last three years.

The centre half has proved the undisputed fans' favourite with three straight player of the year awards.

But, despite his awesome form in his first season in Division One, the defensive giant is not assured of hanging onto the trophy which has become his personal property since joining the Shakers for a bargain £50,000 from Halifax Town.

From today fans can vote for the player they believe has done most to try and keep Bury in the First Division. And while ever-present Lucketti is certain to right up their in the reckoning, he's not the only one.

It is likely to be the closest vote for years with any one of five players taking the top honours.

Goalkeeper Dean Kiely's safe hands and razor sharp reflexes have seen his value rocket from the £100,000 Bury paid a couple of years ago to around £1million.

Like Kiely and Lucketti, Nick Daws has not missed a game this season and deserves an award for his incredible record of 124 consecutive games in three different divisions.

His energy and determination has been vital in helping Bury win so many midfield battles before his recent successful switch to right wing back and his regular midfield partner Lenny Johnrose has also staked a strong claim for votes with consistently eye-catching performances.

But the sternest challenge to Lucketti is likely to come from the man closest to him in the heat of battle.

Paul Butler is rated by the Shakers on a par with Lucketti at around £1million and fans will find it equally difficult to choose between them when it comes to selecting their top man.

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