Kyle Lightbourne, who spearheads Macclesfield Town's attack against Exeter today, is backing fellow Bermudian Shaun Goater's bid to return to the big time, writes Matt Westcott.

Lightbourne, who plays in the English Third Division, is obviously in regular contact with Goater, currently sitting on top of the First Division with Manchester City.

But while Lightbourne is helping the Silkmen avoid the dreaded relegation to the realms of non-league soccer, Goater has his eyes set on promotion to the Premiership at the first time of asking.

City, who travel to Wimbledon tomorrow, are six points clear at the top of the table and will be looking to extend that gap, other results permitting, with a win over the Dons.

Goater has banged in 28 goals this season and, after a lean spell in recent weeks, has knocked in four in the past two games.

"When I first came over (to England) we used to travel back together to play for Bermuda," Lightbourne told the Macclesfield Express. "It's always good to have someone around like that when times are hard. He's supported me through my career and I've supported him.

"He's doing very, very well at Manchester City and I'm pleased for him."

City's results are the first Lightbourne looks for on a Saturday evening.

"They look the strongest team in the First Division," he said.

"I hope they do win promotion and that we can push for a top-half finish. That would make it a very good season."

Such a finish for Macclesfield did not look likely just a couple of months ago. They were languishing second from bottom of the entire football ladder and Lightbourne was spending more time in the physio's room than on the pitch.

After a couple of set-backs his ankle problems look to be behind him and he has been back among the goals - his 40 yard lob against Shrewsbury Town a candidate for goal of the season, at least in his own division.

However, Lightbourne says he has scored a better one closer to home.

"I scored one for Bermuda in a World Cup qualifier a few years ago," he said. "It was a header from about 18 yards which rocketed into the top corner of the net to win us the game 1-0. That was a very special goal."

His goal against the Shrews was his first since October and was just what was needed in front of new boss Dave Moss.

"I was very pleased to get the goal as before the injury I hadn't had the best of seasons," he said. "But since coming back I think I have done reasonably well."