BURY boss Andy Preece is running the rule over Blackpool's Steve Bushell writes PHIL THORP.

The combative midfielder with an eye for a goal is a free agent after ending a two year spell at Bloomfield Road.

Formerly with York City, 28-year-old Bushell was captain of Manchester Boys in his youth and it's through his friendship with ex-York teammate Dean Kiely that he's going through his paces with the Shakers.

"As it stands now Steve is just training with us for the time being," said a cautious Preece.

"He's a local lad who needed somewhere to train and we'll just see how it develops.

"He may feature in some of our friendlies but at the moment it's more for him than us.

"We'll continue to have a look at him and see how he shows up, he's certainly done well so far."

Bushell could be an ideal replacement for Nick Daws after the Shakers skipper's recent move to First Division new boys Rotherham.

If a deal was to transpire it would have to wait until the expected takeover of the club comes to fruition, believed to be early next month.