BURY boss Andy Preece has hailed midfielder Jason Jarrett as one of the best in the division.

The 21-year-old has had a tremendous season, cementing his place in the starting line up and becoming a key man in the side.

With injuries to first choice midfielders Paul Reid and Martyn Forrest, the Shakers were desperate for someone to come in and make the position their own.

Jarrett has done that and his form in the last few weeks has been so good that fit again player of the year Chris Billy can't get back in the starting line up. Preece could not be happier.

"I've been absolutely delighted with the way he's taken his opportunity. "He is a quality player who just takes one or two touches and moves the ball around.

"It was harder than it looked on that pitch today and yet Jason did a superb job. I doubt if there are any better midfielders around at this level."

Preece was impressed with everyone against Blackpool though, not just Jarrett. It was so good that even the boss couldn't get on the pitch!

"I was itching to get on and so was Ian Lawson but I didn't really have a chance because we kept creating things," explained Preece. "It was hard to pick out any individuals from the team because they were all superb."

Preece is now hoping the Shakers continue their good form in the Boxing Day clash at Wigan.

"It is going to be a very tough game down there and we haven't got a good record playing against them," he added.

"But if we play the way we did against Blackpool then I think we'll do very well."