RICHIE Barker is planning to put his own stamp on the Shakers after being given the opportunity to cut his teeth in management.

The 36-year-old was offered the Bury job yesterday morning after beating off stiff competition from four other candidates.

He met the chairman, Brian Fenton, last night to thrash out terms and to pick his backroom staff.

And, should everything be agreed, Barker, who took 19 points from a possible 24 as caretaker manager, is looking forward to getting to work.

“It is a good opportunity for me to work with a group of players that I am close to and fond of,” Barker said.

“I know what makes this group of lads tick and they know all about me.

“I will have to change one or two things, otherwise I wouldn’t be doing things my own way. I need to put my own stamp down in some areas. I just did what was required to get the club promoted when I was made caretaker manager.

“But the reason Alan Knill brought me to the club in the first place was because we both have the same philosophies about how the game should be played, and that will not change.”

Barker knows questions will be asked about his lack of experience as a manager, but is determined to prove the doubters wrong.

“People will always try to pick holes,” he added. “People have said that I might not have enough contacts in the game, but that just frustrates me.

“These people have no idea who I know. I had 16 years as a player, four years as a part-time coach, and now two years as a full-time coach. I know a lot of people in the game, as do the people I am looking to bring in as my backroom staff.

“I have worked hard for this opportunity and I will do everything to ensure I am a success for Bury Football Club.”

Barker’s job was made slightly easier earlier this week with the news that experienced defenders Efe Sodje and Ben Futcher have signed new contracts.