PORT Vale boss Brian Horton and his players have all pledged money to the Shakers Buy A Seat campaign this week - but they'll have to wait until after tomorrow's game for their thanks.

The likeable former Manchester City manager has been quick to get behind the Shakers appeal but he knows just what to expect from relegation threatened opponents.

"Bury is a good little club and no-on wants to see any team go out of business," he said.

"They have received a lot of goodwill from clubs all over the country and this is just a small token from us.

"But they'll be fighting for their lives and we can expect a tough game."

While the Valiants' marvellous gesture is another example of the soccer world doing it's bit for the Shakers it's a fair bet Horton's opposite number Andy Preece would appreciate three points just as much.

Last Saturday's defeat at Brighton coupled with results for other struggling teams at the bottom of Division Two have seen the Shaker slump to 22nd in the league.

It's a situation that Preece expects his side to remedy quickly - beginning with tomorrow's visit of Vale.

"With only six games remaining we really need to get moving and our final three home matches will be crucial," he said.

"Vale had a great run to get themselves out of relegation trouble but in recent weeks have slipped up.

"I expect their manager will have given them a kick up the backside after their 4-0 defeat at Blackpool last week."

Preece will leave selecting his starting eleven as late as possible with injury doubts over David Borley (groin), Ian Lawson (ankle) and Gareth Seddon (back and ankle).

With reserve striker Marc Whiteman on loan at Altrincham that could push youngster David Nugent into the frame.

The manager has been highly impressed with the progress the sixteen-year-old Merseyside born forward has made in his first season at the club.

"David has a good chance of being involved in some way tomorrow," added Preece.

"He's done superbly this season. He is a quick, stong lad with a good eye for a goal and is pushing for a place by rights.

"He did well in the reserves again on Monday and caught the eye of one or two people.

"He scored against the Manchester United youth team two weeks and when coaches enquired about him they couldn't believe he was only sixteen.

"After being with the youth team all season he's trained with the first team squad for the last two or three weeks and done well."

Vale are expected to recall goalkeeper Mark Goodlad after a bout of chickenpox and Sagi Burton is expected to be restored to the heart of the defence after the mauling at the seaside last week.