Striker Paul Heffernan, who had a month loan spell with Latics in December, has joined Latics rivals Bristol Rovers on loan.

This development comes as a big surprise to Latics officials who tried to extend Heffernan's loan in January but were told to wait until February.

Both his club and agent knew that Latics were keen to bring him back to Boundary Park but the move reminds Latics officials of the happenings in 2005 when terms had been agreed with Heffernan's agent for a permanent move to Boundary Park only for the player to be diverted to Doncaster and sign for them.