GRAHAM Barrow is anxious to complete the signing of midfielder Dave Flitcroft before the visit of relegation-threatened Southend.

Flitcroft's attempt to gain match fitness in the reserves was thwarted by the freezing weather.

But with Glenn Whelan returning to Manchester City after tomorrow's game, there is a midfield vacancy to fill.

Barrow's hand has also been forced by an injury to Matt Barrass, Colin Woodthorpe's two-game suspension that starts next Saturday and the decision to release Steve Gunby.

Leading scorer Chris Porter is doubtful with a heel injury and Joe O'Neill is set to deputise. On the plus side Terry Dunfield returns after a one-game suspension.

"We are still in a precarious position but if we can get a win tomorrow it will have been a good month for us," said Barrow.

There will be an early inspection to decide whether Gigg Lane is playable in order to prevent Southend setting off unnecessarily.

LAST SEASON: Bury 1 Southend 3

KEY OPPONENT: Leon Constantine - the Shrimpers' main goal threat.

PREDICTION: Bury 2 Southend 1

BETFRED:

Bury 6/5 Draw 9/4 Southend 9/5

Correct Score
Bury To Win
1-0 11/2
2-0 11/1
2-1 17/2
3-0 22/1
3-1 16/1
3-2 25/1

1st/Last Goalscorer In Match
Seddon 11/2
Nugent 13/2
Porter 7/1
O'Neil 7/1
Duxbury 8/1
Singh 11/1
Clegg 11/1
Connell 20/1
Strong 33/1

Porter & Bury 1-0 40/1
Seddon & Bury 2-0 66/1
Nugent & Bury 3-1 80/1