NEW Bury boss Kevin Blackwell will lead his team out at Gigg Lane for the first time this weekend, and he is well aware of the size of the task in front of him.

The former Leeds and Sheffield United manager succeeded Richie Barker at the Shakers’ helm recently and sparked new life into his rock-bottom side as they drew 2-2 at Stevenage last weekend.

Bury’s clash with Hartlepool on Tuesday was called off due to a waterlogged pitch - meaning Blackwell will make his Gigg Lane dug-out debut when Swindon Town come calling tomorrow.

And he is bracing himself for a stringent test as Paolo Di Canio takes his Robins to Greater Manchester.

“The Swindon team has a lot of ability, but every team at this level has its threats,” he said. “We have to be smart enough to work out their threats and come up with a plan to nullify them.

“I know it’s going to be a tough game, but as my first home match in charge I am really looking forward to it, and I know the players are too.

“It’s always nice to remain unbeaten, and technically I’m two games unbeaten now. With the attitude I have seen from the players, I’m confident that we can get a result and keep that run going.”

Blackwell has recalled striker Andy Bishop from his loan spell at Wrexham and signed defender Matt Doherty from Wolves and both could feature against Swindon.

Despite more rain falling on Gigg Lane since Bury’s League One game with Hartlepool was called off in midweek, the club does not foresee any further problems this weekend.