ANDY Preece is being allowed to keep together his current squad of first teamers. . . for the time being at least!

At a meeting with the club's directors on Monday the Bury boss was told he can retain his handful of short term contract players as the Shakers head into a hectic spell of games.

The decision is a big boost for Preece whose charges face a busy period with double fixtures for the next few weeks.

The club's good start to the league season, allied to runs in both the Worthington Cup and LDV Vans Trophy have resulted in an increased number of fans making the trip to Gigg Lane, taking the average gate to more than 3,000.

And in the light of that financial boost the board are happy for the manager keep his current squad together.

"I have to thank the chairman and directors for backing me on this one," said Preece.

"I haven't really asked them for extra money or anything like that but I pointed out that we may need these players as it's a busy month coming up.

"Terry Dunfield could go back to Manchester City in a couple of weeks and we have started to pick up a few injuries as well.

"One or two of the lads are also close to being suspended too, so we could do with keeping the squad the size it is at present."

It's good news for veteran defender Steve Redmond who will be staying with the Shakers for another month while midfielder Liam George will also be extending his stay at Gigg.

Former Wigan Athletic schemer Ian Kilford will also carry on training with the club but will be playing for nothing.

"I've spoken to Ian and he knows what I expect from him," added Preece.

"He needs to do a lot more to push himself into contention but I've told him he can still work his way into the team.

"Obviously if another club comes in for him he'll take that but the opportunity is there for him."

Preece hasn't always been happy with some of the decisions he's had to make in the past regarding the playing staff but he realistic enough to fully understand the financial situation the club currently finds itself in.

He has always maintained that numbers through the gates will have a bearing on the quality of his squad and the board's decision certainly proves his point.

"To get 3,500 for the Macclesfield game was fantastic and I've been told I can have a little bit extra to keep the momentum going.

"The board can see that we need to stay strong for the next few weeks and we will review the situation again at the end of the month."