NEVILLE Southall today threw his hat into the ring for the vacant Bury manager's job.

The Shakers' most famous ex-player began his illustrious goalkeeping career at Gigg Lane and now wants to kick off his managerial career at his old club.

Southall, 40 in September, is ready to hang up his gloves after a magnificent career which saw him win a host of trophies at Everton.

He played 39 league games for Bury before moving on to Goodison Park 17 years ago.

He started last season at Everton before moving on to Southend United and Stoke City where he was hoping to be considered for the manager's job before it was given to Brian Little.

He is looking to get into management and would relish a return to his Bury roots, although his lack of experience will not help his cause.

He said: "I started my playing career at Bury and it would be nice to start in management there also.

"I know what a great little club it is and I know what it would mean to the people of Bury to have a successful team."

Meanwhile, Sammy McIlroy and Sam Allardyce were today ruled out of contention for the Gigg Lane top job.

McIlroy yesterday signed a two-year extension to his Macclesfield contract while Notts County will not allow clubs to approach there boss Allardyce.

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