By Nathan Jackson
December 4 2004

Former Imps defender, Mark Bailey could possibly make a summer return. The cult-hero signed from Northwich left the Imps in the summer in a shock move to Macclesfield Town but has told the Echo he has not ruled out a return to Sincil Bank when his contract expires in the summer.

Bailey was one of Alan Buckley's first signings although it mainly Keith Alexander's (assistant manager at the time) influence that brought him to the Imps. Although he got off to a slow start, it was after Buckley left and Keith took over that Bailey finally came into his own and was one of the first names on the team sheet whenever he wasn't injured.

In 3 and a half years at the club, he scored 4 times with his most memorable coming in the playoff final when his goal proved only a mere consolation as he took the deficit down to 4-2 before Bournemouth scored again just a minute later. A goal against Telford in the LDV Vans 1st Round was followed by a 70 yard goal against Carlisle. His final goal, which was also City's final goal of the season came against Huddersfield when his fierce shot put City 3-2 up on aggregate before the score eventually finish 4-3 to Huddersfield.

In one of the major surprise moves of the summer came when Bailey rejected a new contract in favour of a rumour double wages deal at Macclesfield. Speaking to the Echo however, Bailey revealed a improved Lincoln offer when his contract expires in the summer, could tempt him back to the place where he is loved.

"If the opportunity arose and the club wanted me back, of course I would find it hard to turn down," said the 28-year-old, who made 111 appearances and scored four goals for the Imps.

"Lincoln has a very special place in my heart, and always will.

"The fans were terrific while I was there, and of course I miss the relationship I enjoyed with them.

"They took me to their hearts and I like to think I repaid them with my performances on the pitch.

"I still keep in contact with the players, Keith and his assistant, Gary Simpson, on a regular basis.

Regretably, Bailey misses Tuesday night's vital promotion chasing game after becoming injured. Simon Weaver, the on-loan defender at Macclesfield from the Imps will not feature due to a clause in the loan. However, Bailey will (injuries permitting) make his return to Sincil Bank, although in a Macc shirt in early April when the clash could possibly shape the promotion campaigns of the two teams.