OLDHAM Athletic boss Andy Ritchie has accused Jon Newby of "missing out" by deciding to stay at Bury.

Latics had a big money bid for the player accepted but the striker opted to remain at Gigg Lane.

It left the Shakers and their supporters delighted but Ritchie was far from happy.

He admitted: "I can't believe it. The lad has a tremendous amount of talent and I'm surprised he hasn't taken up our offer, particularly as this gave him the opportunity to progress and possibly play at a higher level.

"I think he has missed out."

That is unlikely to bother Newby who - quite refreshingly for a footballer - decided to turn down a higher wage and stay at Bury for the simple reason that he is happy.

Oldham confirmed that they will not make a second attempt to sign him by offering a more lucrative deal.