Bury new boy Efe is eyeing the play-offs

Jul 18 2008 by Dougie Thomson, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

EFE SODJE believes Bury can reach the League II play-offs this season.

But the former Town defender, who joined the Shakers from Gillingham and has accepted a coaching role as part of his two-year contract, admits automatic promotion will be difficult.

The one-time Nigerian international, who helped Town beat Mansfield in the League II play-off final of 2003, said: “I think we have got enough quality in the players in the changing room now to go for the play-offs, but we can’t yet say whether automatic promotion is possible.”

Sodje, who made 16 appearances on loan at Bury last season, added: “I enjoyed it at the club and I’m going to enjoy it again.

“Obviously I did a good job last time. That’s why the manager wants me to come back and I want to try and improve on that.”

Sodje, 35, is one of four new signings who are set to line-up against Town in tomorrow’s Gigg Lane friendly (3.00).

The others are goalkeeper Wayne Brown (from Hereford), defender Ryan Cresswell (Sheffield United) and midfielder Stephen Dawson (Mansfield).

Danny Racchi, released by Town at the end of last season, is on trial at Bury and aiming to build on a bright display in Tuesday’s 4-1 friendly win at Radcliffe Borough, when ex-Emley striker Glynn Hurst scored twice.

Manager Alan Knill’s squad also includes former Town defender Paul Scott, who was voted the club’s player of the season last time around.