LEE Clark says Bury fans have waited too long for a league win at local rivals Rochdale.

The Shakers have not won any of their last eight league games at Spotland, but did earn the bragging rights two years ago with a 1-0 victory in the FA Cup.

Bury have failed to score in the last six trips to face Keith Hill’s men, a drought Clark is keen to end on Saturday.

“It’s too long for the fans,” he told Bury Times.

“For me the record does not mean as much because it is the first time I will be taking the side there.

“The lads were hurting this week (after Saturday’s 3-2 defeat at home to Bristol Rovers) and we have had to regroup.

“We know it is a derby match and there will be aggression but we need controlled aggression.

“I have seen them play this season and know they have the ability to change into a couple of different formations. They have been fantastic over the past few years but we have to bounce back quickly.”

The Shakers will be without right-back Craig Jones who is set for a spell on the sidelines with a groin injury.

The Welshman’s absence will pave the way for Phil Edwards to make his debut after recovering from a knee injury picked up in pre-season.

“We lost Craig Jones to a groin injury which is why he came off against Bristol at half time,” Clark added.

“We are waiting on reports from the medical team so are unsure about the extent of the damage.

“We thought it might have been too much for Phil to come on on Saturday, but we expect him to be in contention for this weekend.”

Bury are still trying to reduced their squad size and a number of senior players have been told they will not been guaranteed regular football this season.

Andrew Tutte heads the list of players being told they can leave, with neighbours Oldham among the clubs that have registered an interest in the midfielder.

Meanwhile, Adam Thompson will miss Bury’s match at home to Scunthorpe United on September 2 after being called up by Northern Ireland. The centreal-defender will be part of the squad for their World Cup qualifiers in San Marino on September 1, and at home to the Czech Republic on September 4.