STUART Barlow isn't looking for a showdown with manager Graham Barrow despite being overlooked for a place in Bury's Bank Holiday starting line-up against Macclesfield.

The 37-year-old striker gave his boss a timely reminder of his talents with an effort as a sub at the Moss Rose that was controversially disallowed.

But the former Everton hitman is keen to impress and hoping to figure in tonight's home clash with Carlisle.

"It was a bad decision not to allow the goal against Macc," said Barlow. "The referee made a mistake, but hopefully some will go for us like that during the season.

Chances

"On another day we could have won three or 4-1. I knew before the corner was taken I would score.

"The ref said Jon Newby was impeding the keeper's view. Maybe we should work on set pieces in training where we clear the six yard box and let the goalie come and catch the ball!"

Under Bury's 3-5-2 system Barlow may have to wait before starting a game. New boy Matthew Tipton is going to be among those first selected, while Newby looked lively against the Silkmen but failed to take three good chances.

An option for Barrow would be to play Newby wide on the right and bring in Barlow alongside Tipton.

"We've got to look at all options," admitted Barrow, as he plots his team for tonight's game at Gigg Lane.

"Everyone in the squad should want to be in the side.

"But there's no point moaning or sulking about it. The manager knows I want to play but he picks the team and I know we've got the right man as manager.

"I'm sure I will get my chance and when I do hopefully I will start banging them in."

It's early days for Barlow to find himself out in the cold on a regular basis as he did at Stockport last season.

But he didn't make the team until it was too late and County went down.

"I was on fire in training but for some reason the manager didn't pick me. I know I deserved another contract at Stockport," said Barlow.

"But I'm pleased to be at Bury and while I want to play, it's all about the team and making sure we turn these results around."

Meanwhile, Barrow has just two injury worries ahead of the match. New singing Tipton and experienced defender Lee Unsworth will both face late fitness tests on groin strains.

LAST SEASON: Different divisions

KEY OPPONENT: Glenn Murray - promising young striker who spent the summer playing for American side Wilmington Hammerheads.

PREDICTION: Bury 1 Carlisle 0 Tweet