PROMOTION would justify Bury's bold gamble to hang on to Chris Lucketti last summer.

The Shakers have splashed out on trying to go one better than last year's agonising failing to reach the Second Division with a wage bill as big as anybody's in the division.

They made their ambitions clear when they tempted the centre-half to stay at Gigg Lane with a lucrative contract which was only slightly less than the offer he rejected from First Division Crystal Palace after the two clubs agreed a £500,000 deal.

It has proved to be money well spent with the 24-year-old defender producing a consistent level of top quality which can only have added to his valuation.

Lucketti says promotion would also vindicate his decision to stick with the Shakers in favour of the bright lights of the big city club.

"The reason I signed was because I felt we would win promotion this season. And if we do I'll be very glad I decided to stay.

"Everyone wants to improve themselves and it would be another step up the ladder for me and the rest of the lads if we are in the Second Division next season."

Lucketti 's brilliant form at the heart of the defence makes him one of the favourites to land Bury's player of the season award.

Voting forms are currently available and fans have until the last day of the season to pick the players they believe have contributed most to Bury's success this term.

Lucketti's defensive partner Michael Jackson's magnificent form in recent months make him another leading candidate along with striker Mark Carter whose 17 goals in 31 starts have helped to clinch countless points.

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