James Scowcroft makes step down to Bury Town

Scowcroft started his career at Ipswich Town

Former Ipswich Town striker James Scowcroft says it was a strain to step out of the Football League in order to join Bury Town.

The 34-year-old has agreed a game-by-game deal with the Ryman Premier Division outfit.

He told BBC Radio Suffolk: "I kept my options open in the summer, there were a few things that nearly came off, but that's probably 90% finished now.

"I can't complain, I'm 34, coming up to 35, and I wouldn't change anything."

The forward, who was released by Leyton Orient in May, added: "For me at the moment it's about getting to the next step in my career and I'll always play as long as I enjoy it.

"You can't replicate putting your boots on on a Saturday afternoon, nothing else will fill that void."

Scowcroft scored 55 goals during his initial six-year career with Ipswich, leaving for Leicester in 2001 and returning to Portman Road for a goalless loan spell in 2005.

The former England Under-21 front man made his debut for his home town club on Saturday, coming off the bench in the 0-0 draw with Wealdstone.

However, he admits he is still short of match fitness.

"I'm a million miles away to be fair, I hadn't really played a lot in the last season of my career," he said.

"It will take me a few weeks to get fit again but they understand that."

Bury have a made a solid start to their first season in the Ryman Premier and are sitting fifth in the table.