OXFORD United striker Nigel Jemson has done a U-turn by moving to Division 1 rivals Bury for £100,000.

The 28-year-old forward had turned down moves to Bury and Birmingham this season, but after the Shakers came back in for him, he agreed terms and signed yesterday in time to face Port Vale tomorrow.

Oxford signed Jemson, who was out contract in the summer, for a bargain £60,000 from Notts County 18 months ago, and he scored 33 goals in 82 games for United, including ten this season.

United offered Jemson new terms earlier this season, but he rejected them and new manager Malcolm Shotton withdrew the offer - along with those made to goalkeeper Phil Whitehead and striker Martin Aldridge - when he arrived at the club.

"They have got to prove they want the contracts," said Shotton. "I am not going to give contracts out for people who I have not seen.

"If they deserve them, I will give it to them. They have got to make sure their hearts are in the football club. "I wish Nigel Jemson all the best for the future, but I hope he doesn't score too many goals because Bury are one of our rivals!"

Shotton is hoping to have some of the money from Jemson's transfer to strengthen his side, but he is under no illusions that he will be getting all of it. "I know that is out of the question," he said.

Jemson's transfer is a blow to Oxford as they prepare to visit Sheffield United tomorrow.

Shotton is set to choose from Simon Weatherstone, Jamie Cook, Matt Murphy and Martin Aldridge to partner loan signing O'Neill Donaldson up front.

Skipper Mike Ford and defender Paul Powell come back into contention, and Shotton was boosted yesterday by Christophe Remy returning to training after a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

Meanwhile, Bob Ford, who Oxford sold to the Blades for £400,000 at the end of November to keep the club afloat, is set to line-up against his old club.

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