NEIL Warnock is all set to become the next manager of Bury Football Club.

The former Oldham Athletic boss has shot to the top of a growing list of candidates and has been involved in extensive talks with Shakers supremo Terry Robinson this week.

An announcement is expected sooner rather than later.

Robinson, who was staying tight-lipped about his number one target told the Bury Times yesterday: "We've identified the man we'd like, have spoken to him on several occasions but at this moment in time discussions are ongoing."

Warnock, who took Notts County from the old Third Division to the First Division, as well as the FA Cup quarter-finals, has won promotion with Scarborough, Huddersfield Town and Plymouth, and is seen as just the kind of wheeler dealer boss needed if the club is to progress further.

He is an advocate of the style of soccer that has brought the Shakers so much success in recent seasons and another major plus in his favour is his immediate availability, meaning the Shakers would not have to pay costly compensation to clubs which have a manager under contract.

Although he has been in the frame for the Sheffield United and Norwich City posts in recent weeks, Warnock has expressed a desire to take on the Gigg Lane job and would see it as a great challenge.

Among other candidates who have thrown their hats in the ring are former Burnley boss Jimmy Mullen, Mick Buxton, Neville Southall (see adjacent story), ex-Bury star Paul Hilton and former Liverpool ace Jan Molby.

The Shakers chairman confirmed he approached Macclesfield Town regarding speaking to Sammy McIlroy but was told he was about to sign a new contract to keep him at Moss Rose.

Negotiations to bring Bryan Small to the club are on ice. Club officials have spoken to the player's agent but until the manager's position is resolved Small is keeping his options open regarding a permanent transfer.

Chairman Terry Robinson has dismissed rumours that the Shakers have made a bid for Crewe Alexandra's out-of-contract striker Steve Garvey.

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