A MYSTERY virus could force Shakers defender Matt Barrass to miss the start of the new campaign.

The talented local lad missed Saturday's 2-1 pre-season friendly defeat against rivals Bolton Wanderers and has been banished from Gigg Lane by the club until the results of blood tests are known later this week.

His symptoms, swollen glands, headaches and lethargy, are similar to those of glandular fever and if it turns out that is the prognosis he could be out for weeks.

However, speaking to the Bury Times yesterday Barrass was hopeful that wouldn't be the verdict and he is desperate to get back to full-time training in readiness for the big kick-off.

"There's definitely something there but until we know definitely what the problem is I can't risk spreading it to the rest of the lads," explained Barrass.

"I've spoken to people who have had glandular fever and I honestly don't think I'm as bad as that.

"Hopefully the tests will prove I'm okay and then I'll get the all clear to resume full training because it's frustrating to be out of action so close to the season."

A long lay-off is the last thing the unlucky Barrass wants after missing a full season with knee ligament damage two years ago.

He made a first team berth his own midway through last season with some superb performances on the right side of defence and it would be a real blow to boss Andy Preece if he was to lose Barrass.

Mindful of that eventuality Preece has signed up former Crewe Alexandra defender Lee Unsworth on a twelve month contract.

Eccles-born Unsworth, has excelled in pre-season games and linked up well against Bolton in a three man back line with Sam Collins and Chris Swailes.

"I was really pleased with Lee," said Preece, "He fitted in really well, knocked in some quality balls and defensively made some great challenges.

"But I though anyone watching Sam Collins today would have been impressed," he added.

"There aren't many players who can pass a ball over 50 or 60 yards like he can.

"I've got to take a lot out of that game. In the first half Bolton never looked like scoring and we could have had one or two at the other end.

"If we maintain the spirit we have throughout the club I'm sure we can do something. The league is wide open and I don't see why we can't be pushing for a play-off place. It all depends on a bit of luck and steering clear of injuries.

"We are nearly there but there are still one or two positions up for grabs."

Who will fill the two striking positions at Cambridge on Saturday is a big question and it's something that will keep Preece's mind occupied for the next few days.

"Paul Barnes and Dean Crowe have been doing well and scoring, Baichung Bhutia looked lively when he came on and I've been scoring as well," said Preece.

"But four into two doesn't go and someone's going to be disappointed - it's a difficult one!"