Story courtesy of the Bury Times

NEW Shakers signing Ryan Lowe is confident he has signed for a club on the up.

The 30-year-old striker was snapped up by Bury boss Alan Knill after being released by relegated Chester City at the end of last season.

The former Shrewsbury and Crewe ace scored 18 goals last term and was highly sought after by a host of clubs, but he believes he can achieve his ambitions of success at Gigg Lane.

"I am made up to be signing for Bury," said Lowe. "I had offers from a few other clubs but I think this club, under Alan Knill and Chris Brass, is going places.

"I saw Bury at close quarters in the two games I played against them last season, and I also watched them in the play-off semi-finals when they were very unlucky against Shrewsbury. They have some very good players.

"Andy Bishop, Andy Morrell and Glynn Hurst all scored goals last season and that was because there are some excellent creative players in the team.

"I hope I can get on the end of those chances myself this season. I am really excited about turning out alongside some very good players."

Lowe and fellow new boy Danny Carlton will be competing with Bishop and Morrell for a starting spot, and the Liverpool-born forward believes such competition can only be healthy for the team.

"The manager wants players banging on the door itching to play," said Lowe. "He has plenty of options now and that will keep us all on our toes.

"All four of us are proven goalscorers and that is an exciting proposition for the supporters and the manager.

"We know we have to keep performing to stay in the team and I am going into the season quite confident because I always back myself to score goals.

"I always set myself targets, but I keep those to myself."

Lowe's signing has been met with excitement by Shakers supporters, who have seen at close hand the danger he possesses in the penalty area.

The striker scored a 92nd minute equaliser against Bury in March to deny his new employees a vital three points, and he also scored a late leveller in 2005. Throw into the mix a match-winning brace in the 2004-05 season and it is easy to see why Shakers fans are happy to see the tricky forward in their team.

"The supporters have always played a big part in my career at every club I have played at," said Lowe. "I always have time for the fans and I like to take time out to speak to them.

"I am glad they are excited about my arrival and I am looking forward to trying to bring them goals and success."