BURY are hoping for a bumper crowd in the big attraction of their pre-season build-up tonight.

Gigg Lane hosts its only match in the Shakers' warm-up schedule when Peter Reid brings his Premier League new boys south.

And the ground is expected to be buzzing with the big match atmosphere as the two clubs field their full-strength sides.

Bury are anticipating hundreds of Roker fans making the trip as they take advantage of their first chance to see their promoted heroes on British soil before they begin their eagerly-awaited campaign back in the big time.

And Bury supporters are expected to turn out in force to see Premiership opposition and their own promoted stars who will be boosted by the inclusion of new signings Ronnie Jepson, Gordon Armstrong and Paul Butler. Shakers boss Stan Ternent, who will be looking to his side to continue the positive momentum of their pre-season build-up, is grateful to Reid for providing Bury with such an attractive fixture.

The Roker boss was on the Shakers' books for a spell after his successful reign at Manchester City and has been a regular and welcome visitor to Gigg Lane for years.

"Peter's a smashing contact for us and a good pal," said Ternent.

"He is bringing a full-strength side which will provide us will a stern test.

"We're all hoping for a special occasion with a big crowd although we have no idea how many supporters they will bring down with them.

"Sunderland have been in Southern Ireland and this will be the first chance their supporters have had to see them. So hopefully a lot of them will take the opportunity.

"It's also a good chance for our supporters to see Premier League opposition in action here and we will delighted if we get something in the region of 3,000." Bury could give an outing to goalkeeper Stuart Naylor, who has been released by West Bromwich Albion, as Ternent runs the rule over the 32-year-old in case No 1 Gary Kelly - the only member of Bury's first team squad out of contract - moves to another club.

Bury's squad for tonight's match: Bracey, West, Butler, Daws, Lucketti, Jackson, Armstrong, Johnson, Jepson, Johnrose, Pugh, Carter, Hughes, Matthews, Rigby, Stant and Naylor.

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