FORMER Bury left-back Tom Kennedy has returned to the club on loan until January with a view to a permanent move.

The 29-year-old defender made more than 140 league appearances for the Shakers between 2002 and 2007 before joining rivals Rochdale.

Subsequent moves followed to Leicester, Barnsley and Peterborough before his return to Spotland this season.

Flitcroft said: "TK brings a leadership quality and a quality in terms of some of the best passing this league will see. 

"He will defend that left back slot. He’s a character that, at times away from home, we have been missing and he adds value to the squad. 

"He’s the ultimate professional and is desperate to play. He’s a fantastic signing for us and, as a left sided player; he will balance the squad out and add competition for places.”

Kennedy will go straight into the Bury squad for Saturday's trip to Southend, with manager David Flitcroft expected to further bolster his squad with at least one more loan signing before the weekend.