BURY'S first teamers arrived back at Gigg Lane in preparation for what could be a momentus season of change.

With an expected boardroom takeover only weeks away there was an unusual air of confidence and uncertainty to greet Andy Preece's squad.

The confidence comes from the fact that a much-needed financial lifeline appears to be in the distance and with it the uncertainty of what's in store for players and management.

But for Preece it's just business as usual as he takes stock of who he has at his disposal and whether he can replace the high profile defectors in time for the new campaign.

With skipper Nick Daws this week joining Chris Swailes on a free transfer move to Rotherham United, and the longed for signing of striker Colin Cramb a dead duck following his transfer from Crewe to Dutch giants Fortuna Sittard, the Bury boss will be hoping to get the go-ahead to spend money on experienced replacements.

At present the only two newcomers he welcomed to the club were free transfers in young defender Edward Tarsus from Doncaster Rovers and former Manchester United youngster Marc Whiteman, a striker.

Jersey-born Whiteman has been released after four years with the Reds and Preece reckons both will be given every chance to prove themselves in pre-season games.

"We won't be rushing them but if they shape up they'll be given every opportunity, like any young players we have."

And Preece pointed out that with the likes of Daws and Swailes leaving the club it's up to the youngsters in the squad to prove they are up to filling the gaps.

"We've seen just what progress Chris Armstrong has made and he is an example of what can be achieved."

The boss also declared himself "delighted" at the players' level of fitness after the break.