THERE will be a new kid on the block when Bury take on FA Cup semi-finalists Wycombe Wanderers at Gigg Lane tomorrow.

Twenty-year-old defender Michael Nelson will get the chance to earn himself a permanent contract at Bury after being told he's a definite to start by Shakers boss Andy Preece.

For any fans saying Michael Who, Nelson has been signed from non-league Bishop Auckland on a non-contract basis for the remainder of the season.

The 6'2 central defender has impressed Preece in the reserves and in training, and now the boss has pencilled the youngster in for his first team debut.

"It's a big chance for the lad but he's been consistently impressive and he deserves an opportunity," revealed Preece.

"He's been very good in training for the last few weeks and he didn't let anyone down when he played against Pakistan.

"As well as it being the ideal opportunity for him, it's also ideal for us because we can have a proper look at him and hopefully he'll do well."

Tomorrow's clash is a big one for Lawrie Sanchez's Wycombe who despite their fine cup run are battling to beat the drop to Division Three.

For Bury it may appear there is nothing at stake but Preece begs to differ.

"A lot of the squad are playing for their future," said the Bury boss, who is hoping for a bumper crowd for the final home match. "No one knows what is going to happen in the close season and all the team, including myself, are in the same boat. "Many of the players haven't got contracts yet for next season so there is a lot to play for. I might get the boot as well so it's important that we pick up as many points as possible and finish as high as we can.

"If we get six points that will probably be enough to get into the top half of the league and considering the position at the club that would be a massive achievement."

One man who won't make an appearance tomorrow is Matt Barrass.

The homegrown full back, who has been out for most of the season, came through a reserve match last week but is still nowhere near match fitness and Preece is not prepared to risk the youngster suffering another injury.

"We want to make sure he is ready for next season and so to throw him in too early just isn't worth it," explained the boss. "He came through last week's reserve match, did well and didn't suffer too much of a reaction afterwards.

"He's playing for the youth team today and we'll give him a game for the reserves on Wednesday. Then maybe, just maybe, he might get a chance against Brentford."

Also missing tomorrow are Colin Cramb, Steve Redmond, Martyn Forrest and Steve Halford (all suspended).

Danny Swailes may or may not be making his final appearance of the season. His dismissal against Luton has resulted in a one-match ban for next week's Brentford match.

However, after studying a video of the match, the Shakers are appealing against the ban and it could be overturned before next week's contest.