BURY FC's Bank Holiday programme is set to receive a massive boost by the return of centre-back Danny Swailes.

A thigh problem has kept the big defender out of the Shakers' early season action so far and he has been sorely missed.

But manager Graham Barrow is ready to recall him for Saturday's derby encounter at Rochdale, if not Kidderminster Harriers' Bank Holiday Monday visit to Gigg Lane.

Swailes was going to have a run out in a Manchester Senior Cup tie against Manchester United reserves on Thursday night, but the game had to be postponed because of a waterlogged pitch.

Nevertheless, Barrow is still keen for his man to get straight back into first team action.

"It's a pity the United game was off but he looks in good nick and obviously we'll have a good look at him today," he said.

"Adrenalin can get you through your first game and with two matches in three days we have the option of Colin Woodthorpe back from suspension on Monday.

"It's looking a bit brighter for us defensively with Matt Barrass back in consideration too."

It's been defensive frailties that have got in the way of some good performances in this first month of the new campaign.

Injuries and suspensions have played their part but the manager also believes that a more open style of play could be a reason too.

"We are playing better football this year and are having a much better share of possession in games," he added.

"Last season, during the spell that pulled us clear from trouble, we were defending for long periods and pinching a goal.

"So far we've played five matches and looking back we've had more than 60 or 70 per cent of possession in all of them.

"But that's caused its own little problem because we have to concentrate when the time comes to defend.

"Once we get that right we'll soon start picking up results as we are creating and converting chances.

"It will be a big lift when we get our first choice defenders back and, without being negative, one or two clean sheets wouldn't go amiss."

Like the Shakers, Saturday's opponents Rochdale also bowed out of the Carling Cup this week.

They went down 4-2 to Wolves at Spotland in Monday's Sky televised game after leading 2-0 at one stage.