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Friday, 04 September 1999 |
| Pre Match Preview - Manchester Evening News: Rookie keeper Paddy Kenny has impressed manager Neil Warnock so much he's no longer looking for a first choice keeper. The boss said: "I am looking for another keeper because you need a couple but now Paddy has the job. He has got a lot to learn but has come on leaps and bounds. It's great that the fans have taken to him which has given him such a lift." Meanwhile, Warnock is pondering over whether to break up the brilliant Ian Lawson - Andy Preece strike pairing that hit four goals between them on Monday. Whether or not the manager reverts back to a slightly more defensive formation he will stick with new signing Lee Richardson in mid-field which leaves Darren Bullock on the bench. Bury battle for Bhutia - The Bury Times: BURY are ready to fight all the way to secure the signing of Indian star Baichung Bhutia as fears mount that there could be problems over his work permit. And Bury MPs David Chaytor and Ivan Lewis have added their weight to the cause, with Chaytor calling for a general overhaul of the regulations governing work permits. Although 22-year-old Bhutia has played 31 internationals for India, the country is not rated amongst the top 70 by FIFA - they are 114th. Regulations have also been tightened to ensure home grown players get the chance to play for British teams. But with the current campaign to remove racism from the sport backed by both the football authorities and the government, Bury could use that angle to support any appeal to the Home Office. There are also moves to increase the interest in football amongst the Asian communities in the country and the signing of the Football League's first Indian-born player would be a major boost in that direction. It would focus attention on Bhutia, Bury Football Club and the town as a whole to gauge whether there was a significant increase in Asians both coming to watch games and coming through on the playing side. Bury North MP David Chaytor - himself a lifelong Shakers fan - said he would do everything he could to make sure Bhutia came to Gigg Lane. He confirmed the club have not yet been in contact, but said the whole system needed looking at. "It think it is ridiculous that nations which are trying to establish themselves in the footballing world should face such restrictions," he said. "I will be asking for the work permit system to be looked at." He said he and Ivan Lewis would also be happy to approach the Home Office to lobby on the club's behalf. "I will do all I can to ensure Baichung can play in Britain - and Bury can take advantage of his skills," said Mr Chaytor. His Bury South counterpart Mr Ivan Lewis said he too would do anything he could to help the club. The Shakers are not overly concerned at the moment. Chairman Terry Robinson said: "We are still awaiting notification over the work permit for Baichung, but we always knew there was the likelihood of having to go to appeal." However, both Robinson and manager Neil Warnock are confident that Bury can put forward a convincing case should the matter go to appeal. "We are optimistic we can overcome any obstacles," said Warnock. One pointer for Bury is that Southampton's Latvian striker Marian Pahars was eventually granted a work permit on deadline day last season after two appeals and the intervention of former Sports Minister David Mellor. Meanwhile, the Bury boss turned his attentions to tomorrow's trip to Luton and the bid to secure the Shakers first away win of the season. Luton have fielded a very young side so far this season with just two players, striker Phil Gray, and central defender Marvin Johnson over the age of 21. That has been brought about principally because of Luton's escape from the Receiver's axe just two minutes before the deadline on the day before the start of this season. Three players, defender Steve Davis, midfield man Sean Evers and goalkeeper Kelvin Davis, were sold for a total of £2,100,00. They have won three, drawn one and lost one in the league so far this season, that defeat coming in a 1-0 setback at Bournemouth last Tuesday. Warnock, who has doubts over midfielder Darren Bullock (swollen glands) and Andy Preece (back), said: "We've got to make sure its tough for them. I look forward to every game at the moment and it would be nice to get an away win, especially before going back to Oldham a week on Saturday. "The likelihood is that they still won't have scored before then as they've got Gillingham away tomorrow." Ghanaian goalkeeper Simon Addo has now ended his trial with Bury, but Warnock, who only has youngster Gary Hoggeth to call on apart from Pat Kenny, says: "We are still keeping in touch with Simon as well as looking around for others, but nobody else has come in at the moment." So far this season Warnock has risked not having a substitute goalkeeper on the bench and he revealed that in the event of Pat Kenny being injured during a game, Chris Billy would take over in goal. "Chris has done the job before for me at Huddersfield and he's not got a bad pair of hands," added Warnock. Assistant manager Kevin Blackwell also saw service as a goalkeeper with Plymouth Argyle and the Shakers have retained his playing registration. But, at 41, he is unlikely to be called on except in emergencies. Match Preview - Lancashire Evening Telegraph: Bury travel to Kenilworth Road to take on Luton Town who are one of the early table topping pace setters. But The Shakers will be full of confidence following their thrashing of Colchester last week after having at last found the goal scoring touch which has eluded them for so long. The partnership between veteran striker Andy Preece and the jetheeled youngster Ian Lawson is thriving on the supply from two wingers and will cause problems for many defences. Though manager Neil Warnock would be widely expected to retain an unchanged line up with loan signing Lee Richardson keeping his midfield berth, the Shakers boss may well sacrifice a winger for full back Paul Williams and revert to a safer back four formation. Andy Woodward and Paul Barnes remain unfit. squad; Kenny Billy Williams Reid Daws Collins C.Swailes James Richardson Preece Lawson Littlejohn Barrick Bullock D.Swailes Rocha |
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Tuesday, 31 August 1999 |
| Asian Alert - Bury Times: Baichung Bhutia could be set to lead an Asian revolution in English football. The 22-year-old striker will be the first Indian to play in the Football League when he makes his bow for the shakers towards the end of next month. And the football powers that be are hoping that Bhutia can galvanise the massive potential the game has amongst England's Asian community. Bhutia, who has hit 21 goals in 31 internationals for India, has the potential to become the biggest star in English Football outside the Premiership. According to current estimates the Asian community makes up six per cent of the UK population. Asian youngsters, like any others, play football and dream of playing at the top, so why aren't more Asian kids making the grade? Former Bradford City and Rotherham winger Chris Dolby, born in Dewsbury, was the last player from an Asian background to play professionally. Injury temporarily set back his career and he is now playing with Hyde united in the Unibond League as well as working in the community department at Rotherham United. "There are a lot of people talking about the problem, but very little seems to being done," said Dolby. "It's a two way thing. clubs seem to be holding back a little bit, but if an Asian player made it in the Premiership - and Leeds United have Pudsey-born Harpal Singh - that would put the game in the shop window within the Asian community." Over to you Baichung! |
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Saturday, 28 August 1999 |
| Man Marker - Andy won't be shooting any more - The Pink (Mike Waring): Bury's Andy Woodward vowed to keep thinking positively - despite the blow of breaking down in training just as he was enjoying probably the best form of his career. The versatile defender took a rare shot in training, and was left in agony with a groin injury that will keep him out of first team contention until at least next month. Woodward, 25, who is in his fourth season at Gigg Lane said: "I'll just have to stick to running and tackling during training...I won't be having any shots on goal after this. It's a real sickener because I was feeling positive about our start, as is the rest of the team. "It was very sore at first but I'm optimistic now, I should be available again for selection some time next month. We were very solid at the back and obviously me getting injured has meant changes." Woodward is the best man-marker at the club and took the eye keeping Wrexham's danger man Karl Connolly out of the game in Wales earlier this month. Woodward said: "Connolly told me he hadn't touched the ball, which is quite a compliment. I did some marking jobs quite a few times last season, but now we are in the second division I don't suppose I'll have o do that kind of role so often. If the manager thinks they have a striker or winger, or anyone else for that matter who makes a team tick, then I'm perfectly willing to do a job on them if it is in the best interests of the team." Woodward has been heartened by the form the Shakers' new boys Paul Reid, Sam Collins and Ian Lawson - and apart from his fluke injury is delighted at the new training session regime. He explained: "All three of them have settled in well. This season we seem to have got back our old spirit. We are all sticking together and helping each other out. Like many clubs there are nicknames...for Sam Moose is mentioned, and for me some of the lads have a go at my dark complexion. A bit of banter improves team moral. The training seems sharper and that is reflected in matches. Up front Ian Lawson looks a natural goal scorer and that could make a big difference." Target practice for the Shakers - The Pink (Mike Waring): Bury's training session on Thursday was dominated by one thing...finding the target. Manager Neil Warnock, disappointed to go out of the Worthington Cup at Notts County, blamed the same old problem - not making the most of chances created. So he ordered shooting practice for everyone which was perfectly justified according to Sam Collins, the big defender. Collins said: "Why we keep missing chances dominated our thoughts on the coach coming back from Nottingham on Tuesday. No-one can understand it because we have good players. We created five or six clear-cut opportunities against county and they are top of the table. It was unbelievable really that we came away defeated." Collins is hoping Bury can at least continue to play well even if they don't always win because he's fearing Warnock might return to his unusual ways and start insisting the squad have pre-match egg and Sherry pick-me-up! |
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Friday, 27 August 1999 |
| Lee in to Shake em up - Bury Times: Lee Richardson stands by to make his Bury debut at Bristol City tomorrow in what could be a new look Shakers line-up. With Ian Lawson now the only fully-fit central striker available following further injury setbacks for Paul Barnes and Andy Preece, manager Neil Warnock may be contemplating a change in tactics at Ashton Gate. The loan signing of 30-year-old midfielder Richardson could see Bury consolidate as they look to get back on the winning track following setbacks in their last three games. A much-travelled, experienced player, who likes to get forward, Richardson has seen action at the very top level with Blackburn Rovers and Aberdeen. He has also played at Oldham and Huddersfield, where Warnock has taken him from on a month's loan. With Barnes having suffered a recurrence of his hamstring injury and Preece struggling because of a trapped nerve in his back, Saturday could see Warnock either pack his midfield or switch either Lutel James or Adrian Littlejohn from the wing to partner Lawson if Preece doesn't make it. Whatever the line-up, Richardson is likely to feature, even if it's only a place on the bench and Warnock dropped another hint when he said: "Nicky Daws and Darren Bullock have done well, but I don't think Darren has been on top of his game. "Apart from that they haven't got any competition for their places and I don't think that's healthy. "Lee has that little bit of guile that we have been missing. We are lacking a quality striker to play alongside Lawson at the moment, but with Lee's guile it will stop us being too predictable and, hopefully, help the goals to flow. "We still want to have a go at teams, but if you continue to lose by the odd goal playing like that you have got to look to change it. "I know people will say I am always bringing in players from my old clubs, but Lee knows Sam Collins and Ian Lawson from Huddersfield and they played well together." Richardson said: "Neil phoned me out of the blue. I'm not getting a look in at Huddersfield at the moment. They have a big squad and they are looking to off-load some players - maybe I fall into that category. "I know Neil from Oldham. He sold me to Huddersfield. I'm here for a month and I've been on loan before, so I'm not going to say anymore than we will see how it goes. "I know that's an old cliché, but I'm a bit long in the tooth to start banking on things, but if both parties were happy, I would be interested in a move to Bury." Bristol City, managed by former Gillingham boss Tony Pulis, have fared much the same as the Shakers so far this season. Two wins, two defeats and a draw has been their return from the five games played, although they have progressed to the second round of the Worthington Cup after defeating Cambridge United 4-3 on aggregate. A bonus for Bury tomorrow is that City will be without £4m-rated striker Ade Akinbiyi. He hit 23 goals last season and has been linked with Wolves, Birmingham City and Fulham, but will be away on international duty with Nigeria tomorrow. Paul Mortimer, a free signing from Charlton Athletic, is also out with a pulled hamstring. |
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Thursday, 26 August 1999 |
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Match Previews - Lancashire Evening Telegraph: After a bright and encouraging start to the season, Bury have faltered somewhat recently, dropping points at home and being knocked out of the Worthington Cup. And the reason is not that they have not played well enough, but rather that they have squandered an extraordinary number of chances in front of goal. The Shakers really need to get a result at Bristol City on saturday and also win convincingly against Colchester at home on bank holiday monday. Wheeler dealer manager Neil Warnock has brought in midfield craftsman Lee Richardson on loan from Huddersfield and maybe thinking of revising slightly his all out attacking policy, which has certainly produced chances, but as yet, insufficient goals. The Shakers boss is clearly looking to add some subtlety to the unquestioned endevour and effort in midfield,but whether the strikers can make the most of it remains to be seen. Defender Andy Woodward remains doubtful whilst Andy Preece is receiving traction treatment on his back; Paul Barnes stands by for a come back and a long awaited first goal in Bury colours. squad; Kenny; Billy Collins C.Swailes Daws Richardson Bullock Reid James Lawson Preece Barnes Littlejohn Redmond Barrick Williams D.Swailes Forrest Woodward. Loan Deal - Manchester Evening news: Bury were this afternoon signing midfielder Lee Richardson on loan from Huddersfield. Boss Neil Warnock said: "I'm looking to see if we need some more guile. It could lead to a permanent deal." Meanwhile Andy Preece was today having traction treatment on his back. |
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Tuesday, 24 August 1999 |
| Barnes Boost - Manchester Evening News: Forgotten man Paul Barnes could make a surprise return for Bury at Notts County tonight. Shakers boss, Neil Warnock, may opt for the former Huddersfield Striker, whose short Gigg Lane career has been blighted by injury. "He's in my thoughts," said Warnock as he pondered how to defend a 1-0 lead against the Division Two table toppers. The big bonus amongst the Shakers faithful has been the emergence of rookie keeper, Pat Kenny, the 21 year old signed from Bradford Park Avenue, who has stepped into the shoes of Dean Kiely sold to Charlton for £1 million. Said Warnock: "He's not going to have that much to do behind a defence like ours. What he does do he has been doing right and has been getting better. Skipper Nick Daws joined in the praise for Kenny. He said: "He's been making all the right decisions and has helped us to look Solid." Billy's right back in contention - Bury Times: CHRIS BILLY has been handed the right-back berth for Bury's next two games after impressing against Brentford. Manager Neil Warnock was ready to look to the transfer market for a loan signing after the injury to Andy Woodward left him without a recognised right-back. Billy was Warnock's only option after Woodward ripped a groin muscle in a training ground accident late on Friday, and Warnock said: "I didn't think Chris was going to be fit enough after playing just one reserve game in a month following his ankle injury. "That's why I was considering a loan signing. But Chris proved me wrong on Saturday. He was brilliant. Andy's injury threw us, especially with it happening so late, but Chris did well against an awkward customer like Andy Scott and he will stay in that position for the next couple of games at least," he added. "I'll just have to keep my fmgers crossed and hope he doesn't get another injury." There were no other injuries to report from Saturday's game and Warnock will choose from the same 16 on duty against Brentford for tonight's Worthington Cup trip to Notts County. The Shakers hold a 1-0 lead from the first leg and despite County's recent upsurge in form, go into the game in confident mood. "We know that if we can score a goal they have got to get three," said Warnock. "They have had two great 3-0 wins since we played them, so they will be full of confidence, but then again, so are we. "We really believe we should have won every game we have played, so there is no reason for us to be down, although it must be frustrating for the fans." Warnock's same-again policy means another seat on the bench for striker Paul Bames as he continues his comeback from a hamstring injury. But don't be at all surprised if Barnes gets a run out at some stage over the next couple of games. Warnock answers Noades jibes - Bury Times: NEIL Warnock and Ron Noades crossed swords on Saturday after the Bury boss took exception to remarks by the Brentford supremo about Bury's tactics and pitch. Noades, owner-manager and just about everything else at Brentford, wasn't at all happy with bis team's performance, describing it as "the worst of the yearn. And he tried to deflect that by adding: "It was a new experience playing against `route one' football like that. The pitch was narrow and the grass was long. I presume that suits Bury's style of play." His comments, particularly about the "route one" reference to Bury's football, angered Warnock - and he didn't try to hide it. "If he thinks that was `route one' football he should take a look at the videos of our last few games. Perhaps Mr Noades should stick to chairmanship," rapped Warnock. |
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Monday, 23 August 1999 |
| Match Preview - Lancashire Evening Telegraph: Bury resume their Worthington Cup action a goal to the good when they visit Meadow Lane to take on table toppers Notts County.The Shakers should have had the tie sewn up comfortably after the first leg, but instead face what looks inceasingly like a difficult match. County looked a long way from a top of the table side in the first leg, but have nevertheless got their season off to a splendid start and will no doubt give Bury a difficult game. For the Shakers key defender Andy Woodward again misses out with a groin strain, and though stand in Chris Billy looked pretty light weight in defence on saturday, he is likely to continue. Paul Barnes will have a place on the bench in what is likely to be an unchanged starting line up and should he take a part in the game, could do a lot worse than score his first goal Bury against one of his former clubs and help the Shakers through to the next round in the hope of a much needed money spinning cup run. squad: Kenny; Billy Collins C.Swailes; Daws Bullock Reid; James Lawson Preece Littlejohn Barrick Williams Barnes Avdiu D.Swailes Redmond |
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Saturday, 21 August 1999 |
| Nick Left All Alone - The Pink: Much travelled Ian Stevens could not believe it when he saw the bury line-up at Wrexham. The Malta-born veteran striker now at the Racecourse thought he'd be able to renew old friendships. But there was only one player in the team who he knew from the six years ago when he was at Gigg Lane - skipper Nick Daws. Stevens, who was at Bolton before being signed by Mike Walsh for Bury and has since been at Shrewsbury and Carlisle, said: "I shook Nick's hand before the game and saw him afterwards. It's amazing that in six years the whole bury team has changed. That I suppose is the nature of football nowadays. Nick was still a semi-professional at Bury when I was there, having just joined from Altrincham. I always knew he'd be a good player because he can tackle, has great stamina, two good feet and is strong." Stevens, who scored the winner as Bury tried so desperately to change their fortune away from home after such a dire record last season, was surprised not just by the number of new faces but also the Shakers' style of play. He said: "They played some really decent stuff and probably deserved an equaliser." Bury manager Neil Warnock has been playing down the defensive errors that led to Stevens' winning goal. He said: "Our keeper Paddy Kenny could not be faulted. He shouted so loud it could be heard all over the ground yet Paul Williams headed it away for a corner. Then three defenders couldn't clear the ball and it eventually ended up at Stevens' feet and in the back of our net. The keeper did well with three good punches. Basically Brian Carey cost us a point when he fouled Ian Lawson - and that's why he got sent off." Having sold last years top scorer Laurent D'Jaffo to Stockport, and with Indian striker Baichung Bhutia not due at Gigg Lane until next month at the earliest, Warnock is relying to a great extent on Lawson's predatory prowess. It was ironic that on Saturday there was great anxiety before kick off over Andy Preece's swollen toe that threatened to keep him out of the team. Last season he didn't figure but if Preece had not passed a late test to line up alongside Lawson, Warnock was faced with shuffling the whole team - and even with adopting different tactics, such is Preece's importance nowadays. |
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Friday, 20 August 1999 |
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Ex-Shaker Dies - The Official Bury FC Web Site: Centre-forward Bill Bradbury, a Bury player for a short time in 1960, died on 9th August at Chesterfield following a heart attack. Bill was aged 66 years old and will be remembered by many supporters despite his relatively brief association with Bury. He started out playing for Coventry and Birmingham but really made his mark at Hull City where he scored 82 league goals from 178 games during a five year stay at Boothferry Park. Bury paid £5,000 to bring Bill to Gigg Lane in February 1960 and he his three goals in twelve games during the 1959/60 season but struggled to gain a place in the team during the 1960/61 Diision Three championship season. He played just six games and scored one goal in 1960/61 before asking for a transfer and moving on to Workington. He subsequently played for Southport and was player coach at Wigan Athletic before ending his career with prescot Cables and Kirkby Town. He retired at the end of the 1963/4 season. Reserves Lose the opening Fixture - The Official Bury FC Web Site: |
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Tuesday, 17 August 1999 |
| Asian delight for Bury - Manchester Evening News: Bury's star of Asia, Baichung Bhutia, could be making his debut as early as next month. The 22 year old striker would be the only player from India in the Football League. Shakers chairman, Terry Robinson, told MEN sport today: "His application for a work permit has been sent off to the government and I don't envisage any problems. He has 31 international caps so that should not present a problem although an issue may well be how the government interprets India's world ranking." Robinson added: "We have recruited this player because of his ability and goal scoring record. One spin off could well be more interest from people with an ethnic background in our town which would boost our gates." Bury manager Neil Warnock, and the rest of the backroom staff have been delighted how Bhutia, who last played for East Bengal but is now a free agane, has impressed his teammates. Bhutia who has played in Sweden and can speak English has previously been on trial at Fulham and Aston Villa. Bhutia is back in India whila a decision over his work permit is made. It's Toe Joke - The Bury Times (Mike Waring): Bury could be heading for a mini striker crisis if Andy Preece's toe injury doesn't respond to treatment this week. Preece had to come off six minutes from the end of the game at Wrexham and only played with the help of two pain-killing injections because of a toe injury sustained in training 24 hours before the game. With Paul Barnes out for another couple of weeks owing to a hamstring injury and Indian Baichung Bhutia not due to play until the end of next month, Preece and Ian Lawson are the only recognised out-and-out strikers available at the moment. Preece's injury flared up again towards the end of the game at the Racecourse, but physio Alan Raw is hoping to have it under control in time for Saturday's game against Brentford. "We don't know if there is a break, but even if there is there's not much you can do about it with it being a toe. You just have to leave it to either mend or settle down on it's own. It's very bruised and sore and it seized up on him again at Wrexham. The injections only last for 40 minutes or so and he had one before the game and one at half-time," said Raw. If Preece fails to make it, Bury boss Neil Warnock could switch Adrian Littlejohn or Lutel James inside, but that would disrupt the attractive 4-4-2 formation that Bury did so well with in their first two games of the season. Trialist Carlos Rocha is unlikely to get further than the substitutes bench, so it will be fingers crossed for Preece over the next four days. Warnock has also declared that Bhutia faces a month of heavy training before he will be ready to play for Bury, but that could change if Preece or Lawson are unfortunate enough to be sidelined for any length of time. Looking back on the defeat at Wrexham, Warnock said: "I think anybody that went to Wrexham knows we were worth a point, but you don't get one unless you score a goal when you're behind. Wrexham will cause trouble for anybody. Big Carey doesn't get many free kicks given against him, but he's pushing and shoving all the time. I'm sure Brian Flynn, the Wrexham manager, will say we gave them their best game of the season so far. I thought Carey's sending off was fair. He could have cost them a point, but they employed a bit of professionalism towards the end the way they held things up. But we are still going to go for it home and away. I think it's the way we are now. We passed it around and performed very well, but if you count the chances we had we didn't hit the target enough. Lawson's header was a great chance, but he put it over the bar." Paddy's streets ahead with fans - The Bury Times (Mike Waring): Manager Neil Warnock has thanked Shakers supporters for getting behind rookie keeper Paddy Kenny. The former Bradford Park Avenue custodian has made an impressive start to his first team career and the Bury boss believes the fans have had a lot to do with it. The Shakers faithful have nicknamed the 21-year-old "Tyrone" due to his striking similarity to the character Tyrone Dobbs on Coronation Street and he's well on the way to cult status on the Gigg Lane terraces. They've really taken him under their wing and it's done the lad a world of good," said Warnock. Tyrone is just one nickname they have for him and I think he enjoys it. He's done really well since the season started and went through the pain barrier for the lads against Gillingham on the first day. Even in Saturday's defeat he couldn't be faulted, he punched superbly throughout the game. I didn't blame him at all for the goal. He shouted for it and Paul Williams should have left it." Meet the new boys on Thursday - The Bury Times (Mike Waring): Bury FC Supporters Association's first event of the new season will be held on Thursday evening. And it'll be a chance for the fans to meet for the first time, the 'New Faces of 1999', as introduced by new club skipper Nick Daws. Neil Warnock's close season signings of Paul Reid, Sam Collins and goal hero Ian Lawson will all be present to answer the fans' questions about the up-coming season. Also present will be goalkeeper Paddy Kenny, another new face to the first team action. The event will be held at Starkies Restaurant, located at Gigg Lane starting at 7pm (doors open 6.45pm). Entry is free to all Association members, with a small surcharge for non-members, refundable if they join the Association on the night. The association have also announced a special event for Halloween. There will be a Race Night on Sunday, October 31, at Bury FC Social Club. If anyone is interested in helping with sponsorship for this popular event, would they please contact Association secretary Joyce Rothwell on . Matchday safety stewards are required for the Shakers home matches. Applicants can be either male or female, between the ages of 18 and 55 and physically fit. For an application form or further details ring . |
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Saturday, 14 August 1999 |
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Top Man - Collins ideal to fill Lucketti's shoes - The Pink: Bury skipper Nick Daws paid new boy Sam Collins the ultimate compliment. "He's as good, if not better, than Chris Lucketti," said Daws of the Shakers' man mountain picked up on a free from Huddersfield. "Sam is as strong as Chris and has as much ability. He's probably better on the ground than Chris." added Daws who has taken the captains armband this season from Lucketti. Fans favourite Lucketti went in the opposite direction to Collins when Huddersfield manager Steve Bruce made him his first signing for £1m. Daws went on: "He's got a Desperate Dan sort of face but in training he is right up there with comparable players. He really can shift and is a big, powerful lad. I think Steve Bruce has dropped a clanger letting him go. With Chris Swailes and Andy Woodward, we have a great defence. When you have played in a higher division you do benefit to a certain extent when you drop down one." The skipper is equally impressed by the impact of big Sam's best pal ian Lawson, the striker who has also joined Bury from the Terriers on a free and has become an instant hero with two goals in two games. |
| "Lawson has pace, a good eye for goal and battles away throughout the game. He's young so is bound to have off days but already he has found a degree of consistency." Collins does not blame Bruce in any way for releasing him from First Division Huddersfield because he reckons the ex-united hero never saw him play. "I never spoke to Steve Bruce and I think it was a case of my new gaffer coming in for me and the club itself letting me go. I told Neil Warnock about Ian who he knew all about anyway. I said he'd love him because he never stops scoring goals. He has brilliant spring and is just buzzing at the moment. I know it's early days but I really do think that we are going to get in the First Division. That is the only reason I have come here because I know the club's ambition." Big Sam went on: "If we can keep defending as we have of late I always fancy us to get a goal or two." Warnock can be proud of the pair but he's also delighted at the form of his other free signing - Paul Reid. "He's never goping to catch the eye and have the pundits making him the man of the match but he's made a fine start. He reminds me of our skipper Daws." The captain has a new role this season - playing to his strengths anchoring the midfield rather than going forward as often. It's a role worked out by Warnock and the player himself which allows fellow midfielder Darren Bullock to support the strikeforce. That's not the only tactical switch that has impressed the squad and fans alike. The biggest difference has been the introduction of an unprecedented two wingers which will surely lead to away supporters never again branding Bury as boring. Life was far from boring at Gigg Lane this week with Warnock bold enough to sign Baichung Bhutia - the captain of the Indian national side. He'll travel from his home in Calcutta once he has won international clearance, and a work permit is granted. | |
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Friday, 13 August 1999 |
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My Real test begins now - Bhaichung Bhutia - The Indian Telegraph: From the Arjuna Award to a long-term contract with an English club its all happening for Bhaichung Bhutia. But as he readies to work into the new millennium on foreign soil, the first Indian footballer to do so, the young man is remarkably level-headed. Speaking to The Telegraph in an exclusive interview today, Bhaichung conveyed the impression that though he is "happy", he hasnt yet done anything to paint the town red. His reactions to recent changes in his life were a mixture of pragmatism, quiet confidence and hope. So there was none of the usual Arjuna Award-dedication to a loved one or thanking the family for its support. Yes, like anybody on an overseas trip, he kept in touch with his family in Sikkim and also told them about his signing for Bury Football Club. But there wasnt more to the conversation than that. And it was in sync with such understatements that Bhaichung said the twin honour of bagging an Arjuna Award and getting an English foothold "are perhaps one of the biggest moments of my career." The Indian star knows full well that though getting the English assignment was difficult, his "real test begins now." By that he meant not only the difficulty in obtaining a work permit something that takes "four to six weeks" to process but also securing a more permanent foothold in a country where soccer sells like nothing else. The lithe forward admitted his game will need improvement but said he would rather leave pinpointing the areas to the coaching staff, headed by Neil Warnock. Bhaichung, however, is optimistic about surviving the grind and more. "I hope this is just the beginning. I also hope I wont be the only one to come this far from India." Having already spent over two months in Europe (mostly in England), Bhaichung felt settling down wont be a problem anymore, as it was when he tried his luck at Aston Villa earlier this year. "It does get cold at times but I have been fairly acclimatised now," he said confidently. The only time he sounded a touch wistful was when asked whether he would miss Calcutta. "How can I not miss the city that has given me everything..." Bhaichung leaves England for India on Wednesday. He will stop first in Delhi before returning to his favourite city on Friday. He is expected to leave in the first week of September. Bhaichung could return to India for the Asian Cup, in November. Like he did here, Bhaichung will have to train in the mornings, usually between 10 and 1 pm, for five days a week. Sometimes, on Sundays too. The club has three training grounds over and above the 12,000 all-seater Gigg Lane Stadium. A new stadium is being built, it was learnt. Bury, who play in blue-and-white shirts at home and wear red- and-blue on the road, have 24 senior players and 26 junior professionals. Bhaichung, of course, has signed as a senior player, the only Asian to do so. Led by Mickey Dawes, The Shakers have three more foreigners in their roster. Bhaichung said he wasnt really surprised at having got into the Manchester club. "I had faith in my abilities and confidence in my agent. "You see, footballers from all over the world are trying to sell themselves in Europe. If you are an unknown commodity, as I was here, your agent has to do a lot of hard-sell to get you on trial with a club." Bhaichung is a rare Indian mixture of style, substance and maturity. It has often been reflected in his football from the time he set foot in East Bengal over six years ago through his Nehru Cup matchwinner versus Uzbekistan, his goal-rush for JCT to the hattrick in a Calcutta Derby. But even as Bury dub him the Star of Asia, Bhaichung, having eclipsed his Indian peers and predecessors, remains the humble, young man he always was. Also an article from the Calcutta Express from March: Bhaichung Bhutia, India's star football striker, returned from England Monday and described the weather there as `cold.' The mercury must have fallen even further after he received the cold shoulder from Aston Villa, the English football club which called him for a trial. Bhutia, the best player of a country, ranked beyond 110 in the world, was not considered good by the talent scouts. However, the man is not disheartened. He wants to return there in July, for more trials. Perhaps his determination will help him succeed. The boy from an obscure village in Sikkim might find his first taste of English climate icy, but he feels he will get used to it aftermore visits. He is not saying much about the trip, and wants to concentrate on the National League. However, he is surely looking for other avenues abroad. The Aston Villa rejection is not the end of the world, and Bhutia is not complaining. Bury Addo week on - Manchester Evening News: Ghanian International keeper Simon Addo's trial at Bury is to be extended for another week as manager Neil Warnock keeps his options open about whether to recruit or stick with former Bradford Park Avenue rookie Paddy Kenny, aged 21, in goal. "I don't want to rush anything and Paddy has been doing fine in the last two games,"said Warnock who sold class act Dean Kiely for £1m to Charlton in the summer. Match Preview - Manchester Evening News: New look Bury, who have been wowing their fans with two pacy wingers, head for Wrexham tomorrow determined to make it three wins on the bounce. Transfer listed Adrian Littlejohn and Lutel James's form have expotomised the Shakers all action style that led to victories over Gillingham and Notts County. Skipper Nick Daws however warned today that his team will come unstuck at their first away trip if they become complacent and don't contiue to battle. He siad: "Wrexham is a difficult place to go because of their partisan home support." Au Revoir D'Jaffo - Leading Scorer becomes third player to join the County Set - The Bury Times: Bury's French ace Laurent D'Jaffo yesterday joined First Division Stockport County in a £100,000 deal. Last season's leading scorer becomes the third Sakers striker to join the Edgeley Park club in the last twelve months teaming up with Rob Matthews and Tony Ellis who left Gigg Lane midway through the season. The move comes as no surprise after the Bury Times exclusively revealed two weeks ago that D'Jaffo was unsettled at the club with boss Neil Warnock unhappy with his attitude during the pre-season build up. With a surfeit of forwards on the clubs books and Indian star Bhaichung Bhutia waiting in the wings, Warnock won't be too perturbed at losing D'Jaffo while the £100,000 windfall lokks like good business for a player picked up on a free transfer from Ayr United last summer. But the whole of the D'Jaffo business has left a bitter taste in the mouth of Chairman Terry Robinson who described the Frenchmans's stance as a "Mini Anelka". "I'm far from happy about the situation," he said. "He was under contract for another twelve months and we didn't want to sell him, but we were forced into a situation where we had to. I'd definately think twice about signing players who were linked to agents like that. It may look good business as far as the money is concerned, but we'd rather the player stayed with us." Warnock added: "We only want players who want to play for the club in our dressing room, Andy Preece may be on the list, but at least he wants to play for us and has proved that this week." As one overseas striker leaves another arrives - or will be doing in a few weeks time. Indian superstar Bhaichung Bhutia has returned to get a govenment work permit allowing him to play in the Nationwide League. The club have agreed a three year contract with the East Bengal striker and hope everything will be sorted out by the middle of September. The Shakers travel to Wrexham tomorrow with only injury hit victims Chris Billy and Paul Barnes missing. "It will be our hardest game so far as it's away from home," said Warnock. "I could'nt have asked any more from the lads from the first two games, people may say we've missed chances, but at least we are creating them," And there's no change on the goalkeeping front with the manager happy to stick with Paddy Kenny. "Paddy knows we are looking at other goalkeepers, but there's no need to rush into signing a new one when he's doing as well as he is." Bury beat Ramsbottom - The Bury Times: A Bury XI defeated Ramsbottom United 3-0 at Gigg Lane on Wednesday in a fund raiser for the first North Western Trains League Club |
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Thursday, 12 August 1999 |
| Wrexham v Bury pre-view - The Webbed Robin (Wrexham) Web Site: Only one match gone in the season so there's no league guide to go by. The Shakers got relegated from the 1st division last season so there's not even last season's meetings to go by. So it's Bury's pre-season form and their opening result that we'll look at. Bury were unbeaten in their pre-season matches although all but one of their oponents were from lower divisions. However they did beat Manchester City 2:1 at Gigg Lane. Over the close season Bury have had some activity on the transfer market, mostly with Huddersfield Town. From the Terriers to the Shakers moved defender Sam Collins and striker Ian Lawson whom Wrexham had showed an interest in June. Moving in the other direction was defender Chris Lucketti for three quarters of a million, having played in excess of 270 games for Bury. Bury's third addition to their senior suqad, midfielder Paul Reid on a free from Oldham, is also an ex-Terrier! Bury started this season's campagin with a home victory over Gillingham. The Shakers struck twice early in the second half to gain what some report as a rather fortunate victory. All three newcomers to Gigg Lane played on Saturday with Ian Lawson finding the target. Wrexham were certainly unlucky to leave Bloomfield Road on Saturday with no points. Plenty of chances but only one goal was just not enough to counter Blackpool's killer instinct in front of goal - two goals from three attacks is certainly some strike rate. County Capture D'Jaffo - Manchester Evening News: Laurent D'Jaffo is set to sign for Stockport County today. The French striker was undergoing a medical at Edgerely Park after his on-off £100,000 move from Bury was finally agreed by the two clubs. County boss Andy Kilner has been chasing D'Jaffo, who was the Shakers top-scorer with eight goals last season, since he took over as manager in the summer. Assistant manager Dave Moss said: "Laurent has got strength and mobility and scored goals in a side that wasn't doing very well last season. Although our strikers have had a very good start to the season the time is now right to give them some competition. Laurent gives us that extra option. He shows that we mean business in this division." D'Jaffo will go straight into the squad preparing to play Tranmere Rovers on Saturday, and will be battling for a place with current striking pair Brett Angell and Aaron Wilbraham. The 6ft striker, who started his career at Montpellier alongside Eric Cantona and Roger Milla, joined Bury from Ayr United. He has a French cup winners medal from his time at Montpellier. D'jaffo actually made his debut for Bury against County as a substitute in the FA Cup third round last season. Burnley grab a take-away - Sky Sports: Burnley have snapped up the Indian Striker Bhaichung Bhutia after an unsuccessful trial spell at West Brom. After spending a week training last month, the 22-year-old's future at the Hawthorns was in limbo following the sacking of former Albion manager Denis Smith. He decided to launch his English career with Burnley after rejecting an offer from neighbours Bury. Indian takeaway Bhu tikka-ty boo for Bury - The Sun: Neil Warnock's bid to sikh out new blood has led to Bury signing the first Indian to play in the Football League. Boss Warnock has captured East Bengal skipper Baichung Bhutia, 22, on a three year deal subject to him getting a work permit. Bhutia, who has scored 21 goals in 31 internationals, has poppadom-ed back to Calcutta while the red tape is completed after a week's trial. He had previously been turned down by Aston Villa & Fulham. Warnock said: "He's a real livewire and we rate him a good prospect." D'Jaffo Move On - BBC Ceefax: Bury striker Laurent D;Jaffo will complete a £100,000 move to Stockport County this weekend. |
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Wednesday, 11 August 1999 |
| Shakers target Indian Striker - Manchester Evening News: Bury will replace outgoing top scorer Laurent D'Jaffo with a Sherpa who is the captain of the Indian National side. Frenchman D'Jaffo's on-off £100,000 move to Stockport County is now set to be completed by the weekend. Already India's top player, 22 year old Baichung Bhutia, who plays for East Bengal has agreed terms. He's returned to Calcutta while the formalities of a work permit and international clearance are resolved. "It's quite a coup," said Shakers chairman Terry Robinson of quicksilver Bhutia who has scored 21 goals in 31 internationals for India and would be the first footballer born and bred in India to play in the league. Manager Neil Warnock said: "He is a real livewire, very sharp in the box and it only took us four days to realise what a good prospect he is." Free agent Bhutia told MEN sport: "I have enjoyed training at Gigg Lane, I have been on trial with Aston Villa and Fulham, but I like it in Bury and I think I can benefit from the coaching." He's signed a three year deal and Bury hope he'll be able to make his debut next month. D'Jaffo, who has been out of favour after stating that he was determined to stay in the first division will now get his wish with Stockport meeting Bury's asking price. D'Jaffo who signed on a free from Ayr United said: "I have not had an argument with Neil Warnock but I am ambitious, I am hopeful this proposed transfer will now go through." |
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Tuesday, 10 August 1999 |
| Bullock is so sorry - Manchester Evening News: Ultra combative Darren Bulock has apologised to Bury manager Neil Warnock and his Gigg Lane team mates after the x-rated challenge that almost got him sent off. The midfielder, who relishes his nickname Bulldog, was shown the yellow card on saturday after a two-footed plunge early in the game against Gillingham. The ref tooka lenient view and after wards described Bullock as a "very lucky lad". Bullock was publicly criticised by Warnock after the game and the boss said today: "I have roasted him at training because what he did was totally out of order. To be fair Darren has held his hands up, apologised to me and the rest of the team. Basically his reckless behaviour could have undone all our hard work pre-season. The lads accepted it and now we are getting on with our jobs." Bury's Fanfare - The Manchester Evening News: Bury chairman, Terry Robinson, is hoping the side's new look will continue to attract new fans. He was pleasantly surprised on Saturday when the gate was 500 more than he expected and is sure those fans will return tonight for the Worthington Cup first round tie against Notts County. He said today: "We were all very pleased indeed about Saturday's attendance of more than 4,000." Manager Neil Warnock is likely to stick with the team that beat Gillingham. Meanwhile, Bury will play a delayed pre-season friendly against Ramsbottom United at Gigg Lane tomorrow. Bhutia to sign contract with Bury - The Times of India: NEW DELHI; India' star footballer Bhaichung Bhutia is about to sign a three-year contract with Bury of the English second division. "Bhaichung is a very intelligent player. He picks up things very quickly. Give him (between) three and six months then watch him really go," said Bury manager Neil Warnock, according to a release here this evening. Within a few days of arrival at Bury for trial, the Indian footballer made his mark with a hat-trick in a friendly match and went on to impress with his skills, the release added. Notts County Preview - Lancashire Evening Telegraph: Bury face a goalkeeper crisis ahead of their first leg Worthington Cup match at Gigg Lane on tuesday when Notts County are the visitors. Young keeper Pat Kenny made an impressive debut but took a fearful blow in the face and has since been hospitalised, receiving stitches and there is a fear that he may have a broken cheekbone. Bury are desperately trying to bring someone with experience to Gigg Lane, but should they fail, then the bruised lad may well have to play. Chris Billy is still sidelined and Paul Barnes is also out with ligament problems, but substitute Andy Preece had a big influence in saturdays opening win and will surely start the game. Preece and new guy Ian Lawson seemed to strike an immediate rapport whilst want-away French striker Laurent D'Jaffo will not be considered. Manager Neil Warnock will want to retain as close to saturdays starting line up as he is able. From a financial point of view another cup run is vital for The Shakers and there was enough evidence from saturdays game to suggest that the new look Bury side should progress and may well enjoy a happy season after all the summer upsets. squad. A N Other, Kenny, Woodward, Collins, Swailes (C.), Daws, Reid, Bullock, James, Lawson, Preece, Littlejohn, Avdiu, Forrest, Redmond, Barrick, Challinor, Rocha, Messer Preece back for Mags Tie - The Bury Times: Transfer listed Shakers striker Andy Preece looks certain to start tonight's Worthington Cup first round first leg tie against Notts County at Gigg Lane (7.45pm). Preece impressed manager Neil Warnock with a fine second half performance against Gillingham on Saturday after replacing hamstring injury victim Paul Barnes at half time. The former Blackpool, Crystal Palace and Stockport striker was put on the transfer list during the summer after taking a good deal of stick from the Gigg Lane boo boys. But according to Preece he is still ready to give his all for the club and a few more displays like saturdays could resurrect his Shakers career. "Andy did well and responded to the fans although I was disappointed to hear a section boo him onto the field," said Warnock. "He showed them what he is made of and played superbly with a hand in both goals." Preece who spent an unsuccessful trial spell with Portuguese club Santa Clara two weeks ago, believes, given a run, he could still have a future at Gigg Lane. "I'm a proven goalscorer at Second Division level so it's upto me and the manager whether I have a future with Bury," he said. "As it stands at the moment if somebody came in for me I'd probably leave but if I can get back to scoring goals and get the fans off my back, who knows. Tou've got to enjoy your football and at my age, thirty two, I know I only have about three years left. If people are calling you before you get on the pitch you have to rise above it but at the end of the day you don't want your children to hear you being booed when you're giving your all for the Bury shirt. But at the end of the day I'm a Bury player and am 100 per cent committed and want to score goals for the club. If I could end up with 20 goals at the end of the season and win us promotion it would be magnificent. "I'll be giving it everything so the fans have nothing to worry about on that score." Warnock adds American striker Carlos Rocha to the squad for tonight's visit of the Magpies and although there is a slight doubt over goalkeeper Paddy Kenny after the horrific facial injury picked up against Gillingham he is expected to be okay. "It's a special game for me as it's against my old club but they are a strong, well organised side and our intention will be to take a lead down there in two weeks time," said Warnock. "I think it'll be a similar game to the Burnley tie last season and we may find the home game harder than the away." The Bury boss has been delighted with the attitude of his squad and describes the spirit in the camp as excellent. "Saturday was the first time since I've been at the club that I've had sixteen players in the dressing room and know they are all behind me. I haven't had to worry about one or two players. "Now Dean Barrick has apologised and is getting on with the job again I have taken him off the transfer list. He is a big part of the club again." Bullock shows remorse - The Bury Times: darren Bullock has apologised to manager Neil Warnock and his Bury teammates for the second minute challenge that could have earned him his marching orders on Saturday. The combative midfielder launched into a reckless two-footed lunge that left Gillingham midfielder Matt Bryant writhing in agony. But referee Steve Baines leniently decided to show Bullock a yellow card when some referees would have opted for red. "I roasted Darren about the tackle and pointed out to him that five weeks hard work could have gone up in smoke if he'd have been sent off," said Warnock. "I can't condone a horrific challenge like that and told him that some referees would have sent him of. Darren has taken that on board and has apologised to me and his teammates for what he did." Gillingham boss Peter Taylor firmly believed Bullock should have been sent off for the challenge. "I don't like seeing people being sent off but I was disappointed with the referee's decision. He could have broken Matt Bryant's leg, it was the type of challenge that can end a player's career." Ghanian keeper on trial - The Bury Times: The Shakers search for a goal keeper has moved to Africa! Simon Addo, the Ghanian national keeper, is on trial at Gigg Lane for a week and Neil Warnock and assistant boss Kevin Blackwell are set to run the rule over him. The 22 year old has been plying his trade in Greece with Second Division outfit Kalamata. Warnock thanks fans for patience - The Bury Times: Bury boss Neil Warnock was delighted with the efforts of the Gigg Lane supporters following Saturday's 2-1 opening day triumph over Gillingham. The slow starting Shakers did'nt get into their stride until the second half and Warnock was grateful that fans didn't get impatient during a nervy first period. "I'd personally like to thank the fans for the way they stayed patient in the first half," he said. "I think they could see we were trying but there were so many lads showing nerves playing in their first game that the ball was like a hot potato. It would have been easy for the supporters to turn on us but they were rewarded with a good victory." The manager was delighted with the win and especially the performances of the four debutants in the side. "Paddy Kenny had some difficult shots to deal with but his concentration was good throughout and he slowed the game down professionally whenever he could," said Warnock. "Paul Reid is another Nick Daws, you did'nt notice him that much but he does such a good job for a side and Ian Lawson was excellent and took his goal superbly." But the Shakers chief reserved his most fulsome praise for central defender Sam Collins. "Why he wasn't playing for Huddersfield's first team at Loftus Road on Saturday I'll never know," he said. "He would have made a superb partner for Chris Lucketti and it can only be because Steve Bruce hasn't seen him. I have been slated for bringing in players from my former clubs but the only way to answer the criticism is to do the business on the pitch and that's what Sam did on Saturday." |
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Monday, 09 August 1999 |
| Instant Hit - Ian lights up Bury with a lucky strike - Manchester Evening News: Whisper it, but something rare has been identified at Gigg Lane - A striker with goal scoring always in mind! Ian Lawson is on a mission to rebuild his injury-plagued career and repay Bury manager, Neil Warnock, who took him on a free from Huddersfield. The 21 year old admitted in an exclusive interview with MEN sport today that his cheeky debut goal was a fluke. But what the modest, instant hero didn't mention was he had to show bravery and predatory instinct to dart into the box to flick home Adrian Littlejohn's cross. Lawson said: "To be honest I can't remember much about it. It was one of those that could have gone anywhere. What I can remember is that I was blowing after 15 minutes with the pace. The goal gave us a lot more confidence. There is a brilliant spirit at the club and with support from the fans I think we're set up for a good season." Asked whether he felt he'd done enough to retain a starting place, Lawson said: "It was nice to get a goal and I always think positively and enjoy my football and try not to put myself under pressure." Lawson was a breath of fresh air at goal starved Gigg, shading man of the match from defender Sam Collins, a fair haired version of Paul Butler, who also joined the Shakers on a free transfer from the Terriers. Not only did super-confident Lawson score, but set up the second after hitting the post - and late on he chipped narrowly over the bar. Midfielder Darren Bullock was fortunate to stay on the pitch after yey another nasty and totally unnecessary two-footed challenge. That almost sparked a mass brawl as did the tackle from Nicky Southall that left debut making home keeper, Paddy Kenny, later needing hospital X-rays and two stitches to horrific facial injuries. Referee Steve Baines later said: "On reflection Bullock was probably a lucky boy that I chose yellow. It could easily have been a ten-aside but I was trying to steady things." To pick up the scalp of last season's play-off finalists with such a resillient display, the new look shakers, now skippered by cultured Nick Daws, have given notice to their highly critical fans that the club's famous spirit is back and even at this early stage indications are that a first division return is a very real prospect. Andy Preece, the veteran wh has been on trial in Portugal, looked like a player with something to prove when he came off the bench in place of injured Paul Barnes at the interval. He had the perfect answer to the boo-boys when he played signifcant parts in both Bury goals and later said with a degree of understatement: "I feel I always have a point to prove here." Afterwards Warnock admitted that for the first time since he's been at Buryhe felt that all 16 players on duty were fully behind him - and promptly took Dean Barrick of the transfer list. But the grinning boss refused to take Littlejohn of the list stating: "I reckon he's been doing so well of late BECAUSE he's on the list." Weighting Game - Manchester Evening News: Shakers chairman, Terry Robinson, is on a diet - again. The jovial chap who enjoys the odd tipple and crafty smoke has cut out TEA and COFFEE. "I only have water now," he revealed as he proudly patted his above average sized tum. |
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Saturday, 07 August 1999 |
| Challenger - Promotion is the key for new skipper - The Pink (Mike Waring): New Bury captain Nick Daws has accepted the challenge laid down by manager Neil Warnock - to lead the side back in to Division One. The 29-year old who took over the captaincy from Chris Lucketti at the end of last season, thinks the Shakers can get promotion at the first attempt. "Most of the players have played in Division One, so they should be able to cope at this level," he says. "If we steer clear of injuries we should be challenging. I think it will be a very open division, but we are at a disadvantage because we can't just go out and sign players if things get tough." Daws, signed for just £15,000 from non-league Altringham seven years ago, was asked to become club captain at the end of last season. "The boss took me to one side and said it looked like Chris was going to go and he asked me if I would be captain if he did. I think it was inevitable that Chris would go and I have been at the club so long now it was a great honour to get the captaincy. The lads have been great about it, but they probably give me loads of stick behind my back. There are a lot of new faces here and that has made it easier. I'm not going to be changing my game, though. I won't be shouting and bawling any more than I used to, I will lead by example. It's important to have 11 captains on the pitch this season, anyway. We will have to play as a team to achieve our full potential." Bury's main promotion rivals, he says will be Wigan Athletic and last-year's play-off losers Gillingham. "Wigan will be strong this year because they've got a bit of money behind them, and I think Peter Taylor will do well at Gillingham. We have a small squad at Bury and there won't be a lot of money available but it has been proved a thousand times that money doesn't always buy you success. We will be able to compete with anybody, maybe not in the transfer market, but we will in terms of battling out there on the pitch. If we keep away from the bookings and suspensions that will help but that could be difficult with Bully in the team!" "Bully" - tough-tackling midfielder Darren Bullock - was signed for £200,000 from Swindon in February and has had his run-ins with referees. But he is just misunderstood, says Daws. "I think it can be a problem when you get a bit of a reputation for yourself with referees, but it goes too far. I think he was definitely unlucky to get sent off in his first match against Norwich. But you can be sure he won't be changing the way he plays. He will be as competitive as ever. It was strange getting used to a new midfield partner after he signed. It always seemed like I would have a really bad game when he had a good one and he would have a stinker if I was playing well. But we have done well together in pre-season and hopefully all those problems have been ironed out. We are unbeaten in pre-season but that doesn't count for anything. Beating Manchester city was obviously a big boost and it showed we can hold our own against that type of team. Now all we have to do is transform our good pre-season form into actual points in the league." Rules Shake up for Nationwide - The Official Bury FC Web Site: The Football League believe that the season 1999-2000 could be the most exciting in its 101-year history after undergoing some serious rule changes in the game. Nationwide Divisions One, Two and Three players will now wear squad numbers and names to follow the Premier League, substitutes have been increased to a selection of three from five and sides will be separated by goal difference rather than goals scored. Since 1992, the Nationwide Leagues have been governed by goals scored but, on the suggestion of Ipswich chairman David Sheepshanks, the League have reverted to the tried and trusted goal difference. "We did a study over the past two or three seasons of how it affected our results and the Premier League's goal difference," said Peter Rowe, Football League director of communications. "We found very little difference in either option and a very positive case was put forward by the chairman of Ipswich at the AGM. He felt that quality teams these days were built on solid defences and from those, you build successful attacking. "That should be rewarded and that was the feeling of the club chairmen and they voted to return to goal difference." Another change sees the away goals rule being scrapped in the play-off semi-finals. Chief executive Richard Scudamore, who said more fundamental alterations had been discussed but rejected as unfeasible, explained: "This will give some advantage to the third and fourth-placed teams in each division. "It gives them, as the home club in the second leg, 30 more minutes to score in front of their own supporters before penalties if the aggregate scores are level at full-time." And later in the season, the League will make history when they introduce a new rule to penalise dissent in the Auto Windscreens Shield. "When the Auto Windscreens Shield starts, we will be the first professional League in the world to trial the 10-yard offence, where players will be penalised in the same way rugby does," said Peter Rowe. "That will be interesting to watch when the Shield kicks off later in the season." But while the League are preparing to make giant strides for the forthcoming campaign, they have not forgotten the traditional element of the game. And one long forgotten style point is set to return - with referees returning as the men in black. "It has a more traditional look - all black. We are conscious that we must combine aspects of both tradition and progress," said Rowe. Bury Star in Cash Setback - Soccernet Web Site: Bury midfielder Darren Bullock has reported his former club Swindon to the Football League, claiming he is owed £15,000 from an unpaid signing-on fee. Swindon chairman, Rikki Hunt, said: 'Darren asked this club for a transfer and thus he does not meet with the regulations for a signing-on fee.' Sky Sports Pre-Season Preview: Ins: Sam Collins (Huddersfield, Free), Ian Lawson (Huddersfield, Free), Paul Reid (Oldham, Free), Paul Challinor (Telford, Free) Outs: Dean Kiely (Charlton, £1m), Chris Lucketti (Huddersfield, £750,000), Dean West (Burnley, Free), Tony Rigby (Released), Nigel Jemson (Released) Fans View: Chances: It depends how the manager can mould the players together. We have lost several key players over the last 6 months, with relegation and unproven replacements it could be a turbulent time, middle to lower half division two. Key player: Nick Daws. Not the most gifted player in the world, but embodies the spirit, determination and character of the Bury side over the last few years, with him as captain and basically a brand new side, his job will be important! The boss: Neil Warnock. The knives are out for 'Colin' and he is the most unpopular manager since Jim Iley. Useful in the lower divisions, but has a LOT to prove to win over the fans. One dream: Bury remain solvent through season and start to compete for honours, the Bury public realise this and return to the new Gigg in their droves. Dominic Martinez |
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Friday, 06 August 1999 |
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| D'Jaffo deal off - Manchester Evening News: A £100,000 deal to take Bury's op scorer Laurent D'Jaffo to Stockport has been scuppered at the 11th hour. The clubs are understood to have agreed the fee but the deal has broken down with indications personal terms could not be sorted. D'Jaffo was one of the Shakers few successes last season but has upset manager Neil Warnock by stating he wants to stay in the First Division. Meanwhile Warnock hopes to sign Baichung Bhutia - a 22 year old Indian striker. Match Preview - Manchester Evening News: A game between two sides who, with some justification, believe this fixture could have been played in division one. The Gills were within minutes of beating Man City in the play off final while the Shakers were finally condemned in the last game of the season. The Shakers will be without the injured Chris Billy and want away striker Laurent D'Jaffo but their four summer recruiits - Sam Collins, Ian Lawson, Paul Reid and Paul Challinor will compensate. Dangerman: London born striker Carl Asaba who saw service with Brentford and Reading before his move to the Priestfield Stadium. |
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| "Star of Asia" to shine over Gigg Lane - Bury Times: The Shakers were last night on the verge of signing India's number one footballer - Baichung Bhutia. The 22 year old striker is a national hero in his homeland and as the Bury Times went to press he was at Gigg Lane in contractual talks with Bury boss Neil Warnock. Dubbed "The Star of Asia" by the subcontinent's Football Federation for his spectacular goalscoring exploits, Bhutia has bagged 21 goals in 31 Internationals for India and woud be the first footballer born in the country to play in the football league. A full international sincve 1995 he became the youngest Indian player to score a goal for them with the match winner against Uzbekistan in the Nehru Cup competition of that year. "Baichung would be a superb signing for us, he's very sharp and comes to life in the 18 yard box," said Warnock. |
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| "He's a very exciting, skillfull player and wants an English club to put himself on the stage so we are hoping a deal could be good for both parties." It could take four to six weeks before a work permit comes through for Bhutia but as an established International there would be no problem in him acquiring one. He spent two weeks on trial at Aston Villa in March but returned home after failing to impress John Gregory, however, he admits that a move to the Premiership so soon might have been a little too ambitious. "I didn't really have time to prepare enough when I went to Aston Villa," he said. "I just came over to learn and gain some experience of the English game. I didn't really expect to be taken on." But this time it's different and Bhutia is confident he can establish himself in the english game - hopefully with the Shakers. "I'm very impressed with the setup at Bury," he added, "I know how high the standard of football is in this country and with the training I will receive here I am sure I can improve my game." Warnock has also given a three month contract to American striker Carlos Rocha who has also impressed in pre-season. Meanwhile another overseas player - a goalkeeper - is expected to fly in at the weekend for an extended stay. But Paddy Kenny will make his full debut between the sticks tomorrow when the season gets underway with the visit of Gillingham. Only knee injury victim Chris Billy will be missing from the first team squad as player of the year Chris Swailes (hamstring) is expected to be fit. "I realise this season I have wo win over the fans that dislike me," admitted Warnock. "And the only way I'll do that is by the team playing good football, scoring goals and winning. If we can keep clear of injuries this crop of players we've got here are as good as any team I've had in this division, we've just got to go out and entertain. Tomorrows game will be a difficult one though. Gillingham are a big hard side and it'll be intersting to see how we go on against one of the strongest teams in the league." No time for Summer of Discontent - Bury Times: Bury Football Club is standing on the threshold of perhaps the most important campaign in the last decade. Fot hot on the heels of the depression of relegation is the proespect of the Gigg lane pheonix rising from the ashes of disappointment. Far from being a summer of discontent, the close season has been one of the almost frenzied activity as players and backroom staff have come and gone, ground improvemant schemes have continued and new ones introduced. The commercial department has negotiated a unique link with strip and kit manufacturers Diadora, the lotteries and promotions staff have canvassed all corners of the borough and beyond while the ticket office staff have been up to their armpits in paper work as they seek to satisfy a demand which has exceeded that which was predicted by the job's comforters. Yes, Football these days is big business and the fantasy figures being dreamed up for those in the Premiership prove that fact is stronger than fiction. But a harsh fact for the Shakers of this world is that far too little of the luxury lucre is filtered through to them. The sky is the limit for some; others seek that cloud with a silver lining. "We simply have to continue beavering away and keep our eyes fixed on a return to Division One for the squad we have assembled should give us a chance to re-establsh ourselves on the playing side," said chairman Terry Robinson who recognises the big money transfers of Chris Lucketti and Dean Kiely have funded the club throughout the summer and enabled Bury to start the season. "That income goes towards the running costs and does not allow for major expenditure on players, which is why the manager has been active bringing in quality players without funding," the Chairman explained. The clubs youth policy has been maintained despite a costly excercise and hopefully will produce players for the future to enable teams which are a blend of experience and youthful potential to successfully represent the club and the town of Bury. Acknowledging the tremendous support which fans have shown throughout the summer - season ticket sales are down 20% in cash terms but show an increase compared with the previous Second Division season - Mr. Robinson offers the assurance that only players who want to play for the Shakers will be allowed to pull on a Bury shirt. "If a player leaves the club because of a financial climate then supporters will be told of it, Otherwise, whatever the speculation, it wll be becuase an individual does'nt want to play," he added. And this season, in Particular, the players should feel good in the official club strip for the quality and design of the Diadore products - Bury are now the only English club sponsored by the company - instill a sense of pride and wellbeing. With work on the East Stand due to be completed in November toprovide an all-seater, 12000 capacity stadium, and a new Birthdays operated superstore currently under construction at the front of the main car park, Gigg Lane is certainly a hive of activity, but here will you be when Gillingham arrive to kick off the new season tomorrow? By all means kep the memory of the Wembley appearance and the subsequent promotion season, too, the Championship winning side and feel sad about last seasons fall from grace. But we don't forget the club needs you more than ever. New Skipper points the way forward - Bury Times: Goal shy Bury want to avoid a battering and bounce straight back into the first division. That's the no-nonesense target new skipper Nicky Daws secretly desires as he leads his men into action agaisnt Gillingham tomorrow. Daws, the Shakers, longest serving player, also reckons Bury's lack of goalpower last season - they scored just 35 times in the First Division last season - won't hold them back this time. "You've got to aim as high as possible - and that's automatic promotion," said midfielder Daws, who also has the distinction of never missing a game in three years. "W aren't going to be anybody's favourite for automatic promotion. We are not a fashionable club and we haven't spent the money that Wigan and Burnley have. "Gillingham will be strong and I don't want to come out and say we will get automatic promotion and then get battered by them in our first match, but with the squad we have assembled and perhaps with a couple more additions still to come we will be in a position to challenge for promotion." Daws reckons new signing Ian Lawson will be a great partner for Paul barnes up front. "They know each other because they played alongside each other at Hudersfield," says Daws. "So it's not as if it's two new lads teaming up for the first time. Paul Barnes scored goals for fun at this level. He's proved that at York and Burnley, so I think we will score more goals this season." The change to goal difference can help Bury too if the goals don't flow. The Shakers goals for total was the lowest in the First Division last season, but they conceded just 60 in their 46 games, which compares favourably with the rest. Daws explained, "If you look at last season's goals conceded column we had a good record. With goal difference, the pressure's not on to score as many goals - and if you keep the difference in your favour your okay. Laurent D'Jaffo and Adrian Littlejohn are both quality strikers. Lawson, Barnes, D'Jaffo and Littlejohn are all capable of scoring goals and with assistance from the rest of the tem I'm convinced there will be an improvement in the goals for column." Add to that the emerging talents of the speedy Lutel James waiting eagerly on the sidelines and that golden goal rush might just happen. If it does it wull be much appreciated and will certainly do the Shakers cause no harm. "We have to go into each game in a positive frame of mind. If we do that we will win more games than we lose," said Daws. "We would'nt be proffesional if we didn't aim to win promotion straight away. Wehave got to win each game, or attempt to, and see where it leaves us come the run-in." Pre-Game Preview - The Lancashire Evening Telegraph: Following the disappointment of relegation, a major cash crisis and a summer of bitter recriminations, Shakers fans face cheerfully up to life in Division 2 without departed stars Dean Kiely, Chris Lucketti and Dean West. Only new skipper Nicky Daws and defender Andy Woodward remain from the 1997 Championship side, and manager Neil Warnock has brought in Sam Collins and Ian Lawson from his former club Huddersfield and Paul Reid from Oldham. Bury have been unbeaten in their pre season build up, but with all squad members and some trialists given run outs, the starting line up for a difficult opening match against Gillingham is open to many permutations, but rookie goalkeeper Pat Kenny looks likely to make his debut after a determined effort to impress the Shakers boss. The Gills were desperately unfortunate not to be promoted and the careful observer will note that but for a couple of goals, this could well have been a division 1 fixture. squad : Kenny; Reid Woodward Collins Swailes Williams; Daws Bullock ;James Lawson Barnes Littlejohn Billy Forrest Avdiu D'Jaffo |
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Thursday, 05 August 1999 |
| Bury's Anasty Shock - Manchester Evening News: Bury's latest bid to replace summer sale keeper Dean Kiely has ended in failure after Aussie club Carlton turned down an undisclosed offer for Dean Anastasiadis. The Melbourne born keeper of Greek parents had an unsuccesful trial with Wolves last December and has struggled for form since returning home. Neil Warnock is ready to hand trialist striker Carlos Rocha a three month deal. He has impressed at Gigg Lane. |
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Wednesday, 04 August 1999 |
| Pre Season Review - The Manchester Evening news Sport 2000 Pocket Guide: The Manager - Neil Warnock: New look Bury will make improving their goals scored column their top priority. Thats the pledge from manager Neil Warnock, who faced the wrath of a high proportion of Gigg Lane's demanding fans after the club's pitifully poor "Goals Scored" record cost them their First Division status last season. Ironically, it's goal difference that counts this season...but Warnock won't be sticking to a defensive policy and has instead vowed that supporters should roll up to watch his great entertainers. The manager accepts that it is perming two strikers from eight on the books that will be the hardest task as he attempts to keep the Shakers in the promotion pack. "Our scoring record was lousy last year," admitted Warnock who went on: "It is obviously something we're despersately trying to improve. Our top scorer Laurent D'Jaffo got only eight goals and that says it all." As well as Frenchman D'Jaffo, who has only a year left on his Gigg Lane contract, Warnock will be looking for a better return from forwards such as Lutel James, Paul Barnes, Adrian Littlejohn and new signing from Huddersfield Ian Lawson. Regarding Lawson, the manager said: "It's definetely worth a shot with him. He is quick and has an eye for goal. He has a lot to prove and is hungry." Lawson joined Bury on a free along with strapping centre half Sam Collins. Collins is a straight replacement for club talisman and ex player of the year Chris Lucketti, who went in the opposite direction to link up with Steve Bruce at Huddersfield for £1m. The other big money departure was keeper Dean Kiely, who signed for Charlton, also for £1m. Warnock said: "Sam is very similar to Chris and has played 70 odd First Division games. He has got close already to Chris Swailes, who has been a revelation since the fans voted him their player of the year last season. "That has been a notch on Chris. He has been looking after Sam since he has been with us working together on circuit trianing which I do like to see." The third new face in the squad, Paul Reid, has moved on a Bosman free from another of Warnock's old clubs, Oldham. The managers verdict: "He is in the Nicky Daws mould with a quality left foot. He is very good in dead ball situations and gives us great balance on the left." So to the million dollar question. Will Bury bounce straight back up? "I would like us to be pushing for promotion. Thats all I want to say on that one," adds Warnock. The Player - Nick Daws: From bargain buy to Bury's most valuable player...thats the phenomenal progress of newly appointed skipper Nick Daws. And the midfielder, who has been an ever present for an amazing three seasons, is convinced the relegated club will bounce straight back into the First Division to ensure his career stays on the up. Daws, 29, who joined Bury from Semi Pro Altrincham during Mike Walsh's reign, was so concerned about the Shakers ambition he stalled over accepting an improved pay offer for the next two years of his contract. But, after getting the assurances he was seeking from the club chairman Terry Robinson and manager Neil Warnock, he signed and took the skippers armband from pal Chris Lucketti. Lucketti, as expected, moved on to First Division Huddersfield in the summer as did keeper Dean Kiely, who joined Charlton, deals that netted the Shakers £2m. Daws knows the duo will be badly missed but is confident that despite the bookies pessimism Bury with new blood in their ranks will be marking the millenium by regaining their First Division status. Daws said: "I needed to speak to the chairman because, on a personal level, I didn't want my career to stand still after four or five years of it going so well. The chairman told me of his ambitions for the club and the manager has been busy rebuilding the squad. We have not made any big money signings and I would suggest Wigan and Burnley are the outright favourites to go up. But we'll never disgrace ourselves and if we are the underdogs, then thats fine. In fact, Bury do best when we're written off. Two highly paid players have left the club and I was given a great offer to stay and am delighted to do so. Other clubs might look at Bury and think we'll struggle having lost Dean and Chris but other players have left such as Paul Butler, who went to Sunderland; David Johnson who joined Ipswich; and Bury just stuck at it. That is the spirit of this club." Daws will follow Lucketti's example in leading by example, having helped generate the club's traditional never say die spirit. Of the new boys, Daws has been impressed by what he's seen in training of Sam Cllins and Ian Lawson, who both arrived on "free's" from Huddersfield as well as Paul Reid, who was snappe up from neighbours Oldham. This Term: The Shakers may well surprise so-called big money teams once they have overcome the double blow of having lost captain Chris Lucketti to Huddersfield and keeper Dean Kiely to Charlton...deals that have netted the cash strapped club nearly £2m. The midfield is particularly strong, and if the team find a way of hitting the target more often, they will challenge for promotion. Last Term: It was a lack of goals that sent brave Bury into the second division ending their short period with the big boys. Defensively, the squad was sound particularly at home but their away form was the worst nationwide. Loan defender Carl Serrant, who joined from Newcastle United, added a touch of style but even he could not create enough chances for the shot shy forwards. The fact that Bury have ben able to sell Lucketti and Kiely proves that the defence was recognised as one of the best. One to Watch - Kemajl Avdiu: The flying wide man originally from Kosovo, who has Swedish citizenship, has an uncanny eye for goal. For Better or Worse - The Odds: For the Title - 20/1. For Promotion - 13/2. For relegation - 6/1 |
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Monday, 02 August 1999 |
| D'Jaffo Target - Manchester Evening News: Stockport County have had talks with Bury Striker Laurent D'Jaffo over the weekend. The French striker is one of County boss's Andy Kilner main targets to help solve the lack of firepower. |