BURY skipper David Pugh today paid tribute to the defensive kingpins who have led the way into the Second Division.

Chris Lucketti and Michael Jackson will tomorrow night be crowned first and second in the Shakers' player of the season awards.

And old head Pugh has no doubts about the invaluable part the young duo have played in helping secure Gigg Lane's first taste of success for 11 years.

"I'm made up for the younger lads," revealed Pugh whose opening goal in last Saturday's promotion-clinching 3-0 victory over Cardiff City saw him reach his own personal target of 10 strikes for the season.

"We owe them a lot because we have lived off them for much of the season - especially the two lads at centre half.

"Chris and Jacko have been superb for us and I'm certain they could both go on to play at a higher level."

Lucketti looks set to get his chance next season with Southampton and Crystal Palace heading the queue for his services.

The 25-year-old has added to his reputation with an even better season than the previous campaign when his value soared to the £500,000 Palace failed with when the player turned down the move after his club had accepted the fee.

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