Paul Simpson returns to the scene of his most famous hour as Shrewsbury Town manager tonight, backing his former club and Bury to serve up a Friday night cracker.

Simpson will be part of the Sky Sports team at Gigg Lane showing live two of the promotion wannabes going head-to-head.

The game will evoke memories of Town’s famous play-off semi-final success in 2009 when Kevin McIntyre rifled home a dramatic last minute leveller before victory – and a Wembley final appearance – was confirmed by a penalty shoot-out.

The history books show Simpson was dismissed within 12 months of that famous Sunday afternoon in Greater Manchester, while he was sacked by Stockport just three weeks ago after less than six months at the Edgeley Park helm.

But the former Wolves star is looking forward to returning to the football scene tonight.

“It’s the first involvement I have had in football since I left Stockport so it will be interesting,” said Simpson.

“I think it will be a really good game. Shrewsbury will be looking to bounce back from the disappointment of losing at Oxford on Tuesday and it’s the same for Bury after they conceded a last minute goal at Southend last Friday (in a 1-1 draw).

“Both teams will be looking for promotion so it’s got the makings of an entertaining night.”

Simpson has already guided a side to victory at Gigg Lane this season with his Stockport team 1-0 winners there in November.

“We scored a really good goal and had a few other chances but we had to defend well because Bury had a lot of possession,” added the 44-year-old.

“I actually think, with the way they play, Bury are a better side away from home than at home, but you have to roll your sleeves up to get a result there.”

Simpson is comfortable in the world of football media and, while he is anxious to return to a ‘hands-on’ role in the game, he is not entirely convinced he will seek another managerial role after his recent experiences.

“I’ve had a couple of weeks off since Stockport and I’ve done more DIY in that time than I have in years,” he joked.

“I have been in football since 1982 and I want to get back into it.

“It is just getting more and more difficult at clubs at League One and Two level.

“There is no patience and it just gets really frustrating

“You are told there are long-term plans and that you’re the man for these long-term plans – and then a few months down the line, the goalposts move.

“But if the right opportunity came up and it was a manager’s position I would jump at it because I do miss being involved in football.”

By JAMES GARRISON