LEE Clark hailed the appointment of physio Paul Smith as a massive move forward for the club.

The Shakers struggled with a lengthy injury list last season, with more than a full team of 11 players sidelined at one point.

Key men such as Nathan Cameron, Craig Jones, Danny Mayor and Zeli Ismail were all long-term casualties and continuously suffered set-backs as they made premature bids to return to the team.

However, Clark last week moved to bolster his backroom staff in a bid to end the squad's torrid time in the treatment room.

Smith, who has spent the last seven years working at Sheffield Wednesday, is seen as being key among trio of new arrivals which also included sports scientist Jim Henry, as well as goalkeeping coach Tony Caig.

“For me, this (Smith) is a massive appointment after last year,” said Clark.

“That doesn’t mean I am pointing the finger at anyone, we all have to take responsibility for the injury situation last season.

“But it’s a crucial role and that’s why it took a bit of time to get the right person.

"We went through a very diligent process to get him in and we are delighted with the outcome.

“Paul has come to us with a wealth of experience. He’s worked at the highest level and has worked with top players.”

Clark added: “Jim (Henry) has worked at the highest level in the Champions League with Celtic and he’s worked in the Premier League with both Aston Villa and Sunderland.

“He was a valuable member of Martin O’Neill’s staff at three clubs. He’s one of the very best and has come in and made a huge impact already.

“Tony is somebody that I have played with and worked with at Newcastle. He will make the position (of goalkeeping coach) his own.

“Having worked in the same role at Carlisle and Hartlepool, he comes to us with a vast knowledge of the goalkeeping industry and, again, comes with experience.”