CREWE’S generosity could come back to haunt them as Nicky Maynard returns to his former club on Saturday.

The 31-year-old, who scored his first goals for Bury in last Saturday’s draw with Mansfield, came through the acclaimed Crewe academy before joining Bristol City in 2008.

He went on to play for West Ham, Cardiff and MK Dons before being released by Aberdeen at the end of last season, when Crewe let the local lad train with them while he sought a new club.

After a trial at Oxford, Maynard, from Winsford, was handed a deal with Bury until January and the Shakers visit Crewe this weekend.

He said: “Crewe’s on my doorstep and I’m thankful to them for letting me train, to keep topping up (my fitness) and have a football at my feet because it’s easy to stay at home until you get a phone call, to go the gym every other day and not put yourself in the position to be as fit as possible.

“I did my pre-season at Crewe, still hoping for a phone call and waiting around. There were a few offers but at the same time I was still being patient after last season, being away from home and playing in Scotland.

“Ideally I wanted to be closer to home, with my family, and thankfully the gaffer’s put his faith in me. I wouldn’t say I’ve repaid him yet, there’s still a long way to go, but it’s a good start.”

Maynard failed to score in 20 appearances for Aberdeen, although just two of those were league starts.

Saturday's goals were, therefore, his first since February 2017 and took his career tally for league strikes to 95 from 236 starts.

“I fully believe in myself and what I can do," he added.

"You need a manager that believes that as well and knows sometimes you'll have an off day but have faith you can produce something out of nothing.

“For me it’s about playing as many games as possible and I think that, if I can do that, I’ll score goals.

"My goal ratio for starts to goals isn’t too bad and hopefully I can continue this form.”