Kevin Blackwell hopes the presence of some high-profile trialists will act as motivation for his struggling Bury squad.
The Shakers remain in the League One relegation zone despite an upturn in form that has seen them lose only once in their last four matches.
Blackwell is currently running the rule over a host of unattached players including former Leeds defender Ben Parker, ex-Crystal Palace duo Gary Borrowdale and Tom Soars and one-time Manchester City youngster Javan Vidal.
"I've told the players, 'you've got to remember there's some good players out of work - you've seen them'," Blackwell told the Manchester Evening News.
"They've had an insight into the ramifications of a lack of success and losing games - it's losing jobs. If you've got something you better fight to keep hold of it."
"I want people to realise nobody's got a God-given right to be in the team. I think that was a problem at the club."
