HIGH-FLYING Bury have been rocked with the news that full-back Matt Barrass has suffered a cartilage injury in training this week.

The highly-rated home grown defender whose consistent performances have made him a firm favourite with the Shakers fans after breaking into the first team last season, could be out for up to six weeks.

It's a real sickener for the player himself as he has only just recovered from a bout of glandular fever which left him physically exhausted and ruled him out of the first few games.

The situation leaves Shakers boss Andy Preece with a selection headache as the only other first team right back at the club - Lee Unsworth - has still not recovered from the ankle ligament injury he picked up against Northampton.

And to make matters worse young right-back John Gaynor suffered a badly broken leg in the youth team's match against Blackpool last Saturday. Gaynor, who is a superb prospect, looks like being out until after Christmas and has had to have the break pinned.

It all means the Bury boss will be forced to make changes to the defence which has started the season so well and lifted the Shakers to fourth from top in the Division.

"It is a massive blow for us," admitted a disappointed Preece.

"It's a shame for Matt because he's only just got over his other injury and he was playing well.

"It means both our right backs are out because Lee Unsworth won't be fit in time for tomorrow.

"We'll have to look at what options we've got and switch it round a bit. There are three or four players who are in with a chance but we'll make a decision nearer the time."

Chris Billy has done a good job in that position in the past while Lee Connell has been playing there in the reserves.

And Preece hasn't ruled out Lutel James filling the breach although his lack of first team outings this season could be against him.

James was on target in the reserves on Wednesday afternoon when they continued their impressive Pontin's League start with a 4-2 triumph over Hull City.

Bhaichung Bhutia staked a claim for a first team call-up with two good goals with Stevie Halford grabbing the other.

"Bhaichung took his goals well and it's a good sign as we've been struggling to put the ball in the net in recent games," added Preece.

"He's had no adverse affect from his hamstring problem and he'll be raring to go if he comes in." Tomorrow's opponents Port Vale have had a mixed start since being relegated from Division One last season.

And Preece expects a tough encounter as he aims to get his side back onto the winning trail after two games without a victory.

"I've been quite impressed with them. They played well against Stoke in their derby last weekend and will be a good test for us," said Preece.

"Like us they last year they are taking time to find their feet after relegation but it's a good game for us to get back on a winning run again.

"If we go about the game the right way we'll be okay."

Vale have a few injury problems of their own, which may give a start to former Manchester United youngster Michael Twiss.

The full-back quit Old Trafford to get first team football and a calf injury to regular Vale left-back Alan Tankard could provide him with a chance to shine.

Central defender Sate Burton is also doubtful after suffering a hamstring injury.

Vale are mid-table with eight points from seven games, suffering from their usual inconsistency problems.

They have however been pretty consistent away from home - and haven't won on their travels since last November!