BURY head into tomorrow's clash at Macclesfield refreshed, sun-tanned and full of confidence following a mini-break in Wales.

Key players in the team have signed new contracts, Oxford midfielder Matt Murphy could be about to add new blood and the Shakers look to have stumbled on a potentially devastating striker partnership.

Jon Newby and Baichung Bhutia have started together in almost every pre-season game and have impressed each time.

Manager Andy Preece is delighted with the front two and believes they can become key figures this season.

"They've certainly been the main two strikers so far and they've played very well together," admitted Preece.

"We've still got a few pre-season games left so there is a chance for someone else to stake their claim but Baichung and Jon are definitely doing well at the moment and they look good together."

Bhutia himself is well pleased too and for the first time in his two years at Bury is approaching a new season, genuinely believing he can become a regular in the side. The striker, who has highlighted his commitment to Bury by declining to take part in India's forthcoming tour, told the Bury Times: "My partnership with Jon has gone very well. I didn't play with him last season, in fact, I only played one game in the same team as him and I was in midfield.

"Jon is a very good player, very fast, and I think his style of play suits me. He does a lot of work off the ball and we compliment each other.

"I feel it's a partnership that could work well this season. We've started very well and I hope it can continue. Fingers crossed we can keep it going."

Tomorrow's match at Macclesfield will see Preece's side is good mood.

With Chris Billy, Paul Reid, Michael Nelson and Lee Connell all signing new contracts, the team are in good heart for the new season.

"Things are looking good now and I think we're just coming together nicely for the start of the season," added Preece.

"Getting the new contracts signed is a massive weight off mine and everybody elses minds.

"We've been playing some good stuff in our friendly games and I'm every confident about the season ahead."

Tomorrow's match at Macclesfield will be a tester but - with all due respect to the Cheshire outfit - the friendly at Gigg against mighty Manchester United is the one everybody is looking forward to.

And the good news is that United are on a losing streak!

"Yeah, they got beat by Celtic so they are obviously struggling a bit," grinned Preece. "We should be favourites for that one then!

"All the lads are really looking forward to ti, though the match we're really preparing for is against Tranmere next Saturday."