THERE is a saying in football that you should never go back – but Bury boss David Flitcroft believes the return of heroes Ryan Lowe and Nicky Adams will be vital as he bids to build a promotion-winning side.

Both players maintained a strong connection with the club despite leaving the then Gigg Lane for pastures new.

While there have been many changes at what is now known as the JD Stadium, Flitcroft knows only too well the fans have remained the same.

And he is confident the affinity Lowe and Adams still share with the supporters will help the club’s other new signings settle in more quickly.

“Both (Ryan) Lowey and Nicky (Adams) have enjoyed some good times in the past,” said Flitcroft.

“The love they have for the club will filter down to the other players,” he said.

“If players don’t share that love they will soon learn off them two how you can be embraced by a club and be motivated by a club.

“If you look at Gary Neville and Phil Neville, (Ryan) Giggs and Nicky Butt – if they do leave Man United they will always stay Man United. It runs deep through them because they have got so many memories there.

“I think that’s what we have got with Lowey and Nicky.

“The two players will connect with the public and will connect with the other players and I am looking forward to working with them this season as a coach and manager.”

Lowe, aged 35, scored 52 goals in 97 league games for Bury between 2009 and 2011, while Adams, aged 27, started his career at the club, before leaving in 2008.