26 year old Phil Picken joined Manchester United as a junior and rose through the ranks to become an important member of the Red Devils reserve team that won the quadruple in 2005.  Unfortunately, Phil never quite made it as far as the first team and was sent out on loan to Chesterfield on 18 August 2005 until the end of the season.  The loan move to Saltergate proved to be a good foundation as following his release from Old Trafford he signed a permanent deal for the Spireites.  Picks made 37 appearances for Chesterfield during the 08/09 season and was suddenly loaned out to Notts County where he took part in another 22 games.

A change in management at Chesterfield though brought his Chesterfield career to a half and he was released at the end of the 09/10 season.  Phil joined the Shakers mid way through pre-season training and impressed many during his time here whilst on trial.  A one year deal was signed, with an option for a second year.  Following promotion, the club took up that option and his contract automatically rolled over.  A player that can play at right or left back, and in central midfield.  Pick's first season at Gigg Lane saw him miss just eight league games, he finished the campaign with a runners up medal and a total of 43 appearances in all competitions.