Oxford United have turned down at least two bids for midfielder Andy Burgess from a League One club.

The skilful left-sided player is one of U's most creative players, and one of their most saleable assets, but United apparently don't want to lose him as they attempt to bounce back following relegation to the Conference.

Bedford-born Burgess joined Oxford from Rushden & Diamonds in January, arriving along with defender John Dempster as former boss Brian Talbot made a double raid on his old club.

Burgess signed a two-and-a-half-year deal at the time, and the total cost of their fees was believed to be around £45,000, with Burgess's close to £35,0000.

Rushden had previously turned down £25,000 offers for Burgess from both Northampton and Leyton Orient.

Although it took time for him to settle, as it does with most players when they arrive at a new club, Burgess soon showed his ability on the ball, giving an excellent performance on his debut when coming on as a half-time sub at Macclesfield.

He scored a superb goal in the 1-1 draw at Bury in March, in what was to be Darren Patterson's last game in charge.

In contrast, though, he missed a crucial late sitter in Oxford's final away game of the season at Wrexham.

United boss Jim Smith confirmed: "We have turned down bids for Andy Burgess.

"I can't say who the club are, but they're a League One side."

Meanwhile, former Oxford defender Jon Ashton says he turned down offers from two league clubs before signing for Rushden this week.

The ex-Leicester City man was out of contract at the Kassam Stadium at the end of last season, and was told he could leave by Smith.

And he wasted little time in agreeing a two-year contract with Rushden who, like Oxford, were relegated to the Conference.

"Although I had two league clubs interested in me, I thought this was the best place to further my career," he said.