SHAKERS midfield ace George Clegg may not be on his way to an early comeback after all.

The former Manchester United ace has been sorely missed since suffering knee ligament damage in the Worthington Cup triumph over Bolton at The Reebok this month.

And reports have suggested he is set to return to first team action next week - more than a month ahead of schedule.

But Bury manager Andy Preece has scoffed at suggestions that his influential playmaker will be fit to take on Macclesfield Town at Gigg Lane next Saturday.

"Cleggy is progressing well but he's still going to be three or four weeks away from full fitness," he said.

"In the media there have been reports that he will be fit for next week but there is no way that is going to be the case.

"I don't know where they get their information from."

His midfield should be boosted though by news that Terry Dunfield will be staying for at least another month.

The Manchester City ace, whose contract should expire today, has been outstanding during his two-month loan spell with Shakers and Preece is confident his crafty Canadian will be allowed an extended stay.

"I haven't spoken to Kevin Keegan yet but, while it isn't 100 per cent certain, I don't see there being a problem about him staying with us," he said.

"He is really enjoying his time with us here and we'd love to keep him here longer."