Shakers midfielder Max Harrop will resist the temptation to spend the summer in the gym, instead using the inspiration of Lionel Messi to show how slightly-built footballers can still impress in the modern game.

The 17-year-old, who joined the Shakers from Liverpool’s academy in 2009, made three substitute appearances for Bury in the closing stages of last season.

His ability and temperament was clear to see, but question marks were raised about his size and build.

And, while Harrop is working hard to become stronger, he will not let it be at the expense of his natural skill.

“I will work hard on the things I need to improve, which is probably my size,” said Harrop, when pressed on his summer plans.

“But my size can get me out of a lot of trouble on the pitch so I don’t want to take that away from my game – just look at Lionel Messi, it doesn’t do him any harm.

“I always want to get into the gym and drink protein shakes but the manager, Richie Barker, has told me not to overdo it because my size is my main attribute in terms of getting the ball down and running at people using a low centre of gravity.”

Harrop is particularly pleased that Barker has been appointed as the club’s new manager, and hopes his former youth team boss will give the club’s promising kids a chance to flourish.

“Richie knows what I am capable of doing,” said Oldham-born Harrop, son of former Shakers director Ian.

“I kept getting more and more minutes on the pitch towards the end of the season and it’s a case of trying to impress everyone else now.

“I know I can hack it at League Two level, and now League One is the next test. The people I have spoken to have said there is not much difference in the standard of football in the two leagues.

“I actually think a higher division will suit me and the team because the pitches are better and they will be conducive to our style of football. We are all young and fit and we are all good footballers. We graft hard too, but that gives us the chance to express ourselves on the ball.”