BURY'S hopes of securing an early replacement for goalkeeper Dean Kiely have received a setback.

Shakers boss Neil Warnock was all set to run the rule over Aberdeen custodian Derek Stillie for a trial spell but competition from wealthy Second Division rivals Wigan Athletic looks like closing the door on that move.

The job of replacing Eire B international Kiely, who moved to First Division Charlton Athletic in a £1 million deal in May is a daunting one, but the highly-rated former Notts County and Scottish Under-21 international has been a stalwart understudy to Jim Leighton at Pittodrie and is looking for a move to England to guarantee him first team football.

Nevertheless, the Shakers can't compete financially with Dave Whelan's megabucks Latics and it is thought the 26-year-old will set his sights on a move to the newly-built Robin Park.

"I don't seem to be having much success with goalkeeping situation at the moment," said Warnock.

"I'd have liked to have had Derek down but we just can't compete with the money Wigan have. "But I still have one or two more irons in the fire and will bring in a couple of lads for next week when we start playing warm-up games."

Warnock still has the former Bradford Park Avenue 'keeper Paddy Kenny on the books and hasn't ruled out the possibility of bringing in a Premier Division reserve to start the season although he'd prefer to sign someone before the big kick-off on August 7.

The Shakers are organising another of their popular all-inclusive VIP matchday packages for the friendly game against Manchester City at Gigg Lane on Saturday, July 17.

Included in the £25 price (£15 juniors) is a main stand seat, car park pass, Bucks Fizz reception and a superb four course meal served in the Starkies pitchside restaurant at 1pm.

Half-time refreshments and full bar facilities are available with quizzes and competitions and a complementary programme.

Places must be pre-booked and further information can be obtained from Bury Football Club's Commercial Department on 0161-705 2144.

Fans who wish to sponsor player squad numbers for the forthcoming season should note there are still some available.

For the a price of £100 there will be an acknowledgement in every matchday programme of the season.

For further details contact the Commercial Department on 0161-705 2144.

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