LOAN ranger Nicky Ajose has revealed how a few words of advice from Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson convinced him that the next stage of his footballing development is best served at Gigg Lane.

The 19-year-old striker, who has scored six goals since moving from Old Trafford to his hometown club at the end of September, has impressed many observers since being given his Football League debut by Alan Knill.

And, after agreeing to stay with the Shakers until the end of the season, Ajose is determined to take a League Two promotion back to his parent club.

“I didn’t know what was happening once my original deal expired on January 3,” admitted Ajose. “There were a few clubs that I could have gone to but United said that it was best for my development to stay with Bury.

“I had a meeting with Sir Alex Ferguson and he said it would be best to stay with a team up near the top of the league and where I was scoring goals.

“At the same time, I signed a new deal with United and I am happy that I have got the security of a contract there for the next two-and-a half-years.

“To go back to United in the summer with a promotion on my CV would be amazing – I hope we go on a real charge in the next three months and ensure that happens.”

After a difficult run of results post-Christmas, Bury got back to winning ways with a 1-0 defeat of Shrewsbury Town last Friday night.

Ajose shone in front of the Sky cameras and he knows what is needed between now and May.

“We have got 20-odd games left and it is like a mini-season now,” he said. “The play-off final is at Old Trafford this season but hopefully we are not there because we get automatic promotion.

“I have got a goal target in mind but I don’t share that with anyone. I just want to reach my target and tie it in with getting a promotion.

“But the main thing that this stint is giving me is the experiences of playing with different players and in a different intensity of matches.

“Hopefully I am becoming a more rounded player as a result.”