Bury manager David Flitcroft is adamant the Shakers can survive the perils of the January transfer window and will only sell star players on their own terms.
With the window closing at 11pm on Monday February 2 the League Two club are fighting to keep hold of their most talented prospects.
And Flitcroft has said Bury will only sell if it is right for both the player and club, stressing that player development is key at the JD Stadium.
“I do believe Danny Mayor is becoming too good for this league and you’ve got to be careful in developing players you can’t keep hold of them forever,” he said.
“At the right time they have got to go but only if it’s right; I’m sure the chairman will sell on his terms because he’s a business man.
“Rochdale epitomise a club being run in the right way, they sell on their terms now – that’s their business plan and it’s a fantastic angle.”
The Shakers travel to third place Burton Albion this weekend with Bristol City loanee Adam El-Abd set to play his final game for the club.
Flitcroft is hoping to extend that deal after praising the former Brighton and Hove Albion defender’s role in the club’s resurgent form.
Bury have lost just one of their last seven league games, and are unbeaten in their last seven encounters against Burton.
However midfielder Kelvin Etuhu is a doubt for the match after he sustained an injury in the midweek win over rivals Accrington Stanley.
Veteran striker Ryan Lowe is also facing six weeks on the side-lines but Flitcroft’s squad has been boosted with the arrival of Joe Riley.
The 23-year-old full back recently joined from Bolton Wanderers and made an impressive debut in the win at Accrington.
He spent five months on loan at Oxford United earlier this season, making 28 appearances and completing the full 90 minutes in all but four.
“Sometimes you look at loan signings and if they’re playing under-21 games or are in a development squad, they’re always just behind where you need them to be,” added Flitcroft.
“It’s good that he’s got knowledge of the league – he played a certain way at Oxford and I’ll get him to play a different way here.
“He will just grow and get better and better, he’s a defender that wants to attack and there is a controlled aggression about his play.”
Bury could jump as high as fourth if they can overcome high flying Burton and make it three straight league wins.
Image courtesy of Bury FC, via YouTube, with thanks.