OXFORD United have suffered a setback in their plans for the January transfer window after missing out on re-signing Joe Riley.

The right back has agreed a two-and-a-half year deal with fellow Sky Bet League Two club Bury.

Riley spent the first half of this season on loan at the U's from Bolton Wanderers, only missing two games due to injury.

United made it clear they wanted to bring him back for the rest of the season, but head coach Michael Appleton will now have to turn his attention to alternative targets after the Shakers secured the 23-year-old on a permanent deal.

Elsewhere, the club have revealed James Roberts is likely to be out of two to three weeks with the hamstring injury he suffered in Saturday's goalless draw at Dagenham & Redbridge.