BURY have turned to former club captain Chris Lucketti to revive their fortunes in League One.

The former Gigg Lane favourite – who played more than 200 times for the Shakers, leading them to back-to-back promotions in 1996 and 1997 – has signed a two-and-a-half year deal to take over as manager.

Lucketti, aged 46, has been assistant to Graham Alexander at Scunthorpe United and Fleetwood Town but Bury chairman Stewart Day had no hesitation in offering him the manager’s post.

“What we wanted was a young, enthusiastic manager who shared the same ambition as the club,” he said.

“Chris came across really well in our discussions, and demonstrated the knowledge and passion we already knew he had.

“We did not want an older guy who had maybe been in management for a long time as we know how much energy is required to make a success of this job.

“Likewise, we did not want a former Premier League player with no experience of football at this level or an unrealistic idea about what it took to be successful.

“Chris has a great balance. He has played at the very top level, maybe not everybody realises that, but also has great experience as a player and a coach in League One.

“He has been an assistant manager now for five years and is ready to step up. I am confident he can convert all of that knowledge and enthusiasm to become a successful manager in his own right.”

A statement released by the club this evening confirmed Lucketti's appointment, and he will be officially unveiled at a press conference tomorrow morning.