ANDY Preece has revealed his blueprint for next season - 25 goals from Jon Newby and a young team challenging for promotion.

And the Bury boss admitted he would be desperately disappointed if he wasn't the man in charge to reap the rewards of this season's hard graft.

Preece and his coaching staff have spent the last 18 months concentrating on developing the club's youth team.

Next season a host of young players will come through and, with Jon Newby signed for the next two years, Preece believes the team will be good enough to put in a serious bid to reach the First Division.

"I'm excited by the younger players we've got at the club," explained Preece. "I've worked very hard for the last 18 months to bring the young lads through and we are seeing the results now.

"The current situation makes it difficult at the moment but I'd be extremely disappointed if I wasn't here next year and someone else benefits from our work, or worse still decides on a different policy and lets the young lads go.

"This side has got great potential. We've managed to sign Jon and a player like him is likely to score 20 or 25 goals next year.

"If we can hang on to one or two of the more experienced players to help the younger ones then I think we can mount a serious challenge."

Whatever happens during the summer, tomorrow's match at Brentford is sure to be a farewell appearance for many of the first team ... that's if any of the first team are playing.

The Shakers have been hit by a catalogue of injuries and suspensions which leaves no fewer than 11 players either out or doubtful.

Definitely missing will be Colin Cramb, Ady Littlejohn and Danny Swailes through suspension while Lee Unsworth, Sam Collins, Glynn Garner, Nicky Hill, Warren Peyton and Radcliffe Boro trilaist Neill Hardy are all injured.

Steve Halford (back) and Matt Barrass (virus) are also rated doubtful, though Preece hasn't ruled out either player from making the substitutes bench.

Because of the men missing, the team almost picks itself.

Steve Redmond is back from injury, Bishop Auckland trialist Michael Nelson keeps his place and Martyn Forrest and talented youngster Adam Martin are pushing for starting roles in midfield after both scored in the reserves midweek 2-2 draw at Notts County.