STAR defender Matt Doherty hopes to return to parent club Wolves at the end of his loan spell next week, but has left the door open for a return to Bury.

The 20-year-old right-back has made a big impression at Gigg Lane since becoming manager Kevin Blackwell’s first signing when he took over the hot seat at the end of September.

He has been an ever-present in Blackwell’s first team, playing every minute of every game under him, and has even weighed in with some crucial goals.

While the young Irish defender feels he has what it takes to perform at a higher level, Doherty admits he would be more than happy to hot-foot it back to Gigg Lane.

“It’s not sorted but at the moment I think I will be going back to Wolves,” he said.

“I want to go back and just get my face in the door again and see if they want me. But I’m sure that if things don’t work out for me at Wolves then I’ll be coming straight back, if Bury haven’t replaced me by then.”

The chances of Doherty returning to Bury, however, look slim. Wolves have had a scout at his recent Gigg Lane appearances, against Preston and Shrewsbury, when the young full-back burst forward to score two crucial goals.

Former boss and current Ipswich manager Mick McCarthy, who recommended him to Blackwell, is also thought to be waiting in the wings if Wolves decide to sell.

Whatever happens, Doherty will be keeping a close eye on the fortunes of his current team-mates after what is likely to be his final appearance for the Shakers in the New Year’s Day clash at home to Tranmere. And he is sure that, with a little help, they will have what it takes to survive in League One without him.

“If things had fallen our way we would be halfway up the table,” he said.

“I just think the fans need to get behind them, as they have done – they’ve been fantastic, home and away.

“If they keep getting behind them, and the players obviously keep putting the work in, then the results will come and they will be easily safe by the end of the season.”

While Doherty looks to be on his way, Bury are hoping to extend the deals of some of their other loan signings, at least until the transfer embargo has been lifted.

Whatever happens, however, assistant manager Peter Shirtliff has reassured fans the players left at the club have the battling qualities to come through their relegation scrap.

“I’m a big believer that, if you keep plugging away, and stick at it, your luck will turn and things will eventually go your way,” he said.