PADDY Kenny will definitely play in the Premiership.

At least that's according to striker Baichung Bhutia.

The Indian, currently sidelined till March with a knee injury, reckons the goalkeeper is destined to make the step up to the top league sooner rather than later.

In Kenny's last game before his three-match suspension began, the keeper played a blinder and almost single-handedly helped Bury to an unlikely 1-0 win at Colchester.

Bhutia was watching from the sidelines and that display, coupled with others throughout the season, have convinced him that his team-mate has what it takes to become a goalkeeping great.

"Paddy kenny is definitely a player to look out for," said Bhutia.

"Sir Alex Ferguson was raving about his performance in our pre-season friendly against Manchester United and now Andy (Preece) is calling him the best keeper in the division.

"I wouldn't disagree. I think he's got a great future in the game and it would not surprise me at all to see him playing in the Premiership." Meanwhile Bhutia also heaped praise on Bury boss Andy Preece who he said was doing "a great job".

Bhutia is just one of many players out of action at Gigg Lane and considering the crippling injury list, he says Preece has worked wonders.

"Having been rock bottom just over a month ago we are now out of the relegation zone and looking forward to the rest of the season," said Bhutia.

"We know we are not out of danger but there is a lot of confidence about the place."

"We have had a lot of injuries but Andy Preece is doing a great job."

As for his own progress, Bhutia admits it is very early days.

However, the initial diagnosis has not changed from day one meaning he will be lucky to be back in action before the end of the season.

March is his aim for a comeback but he is not making any promises.

"I can't say for certain when I will return," Bhutia added. "I'm still in the early stages of my rehabilitation after my operation."