Esson stays on at Town

Esson's future had been placed in doubt, with manager Gary Peters confirming new arrival Glyn Garner will be the new No. 1 after his summer switch from Leyton Orient.

Peters had suggested he would not stand in the Scot's way should he seek pastures new.

But the 26-year-old has confirmed he will be back at pre-season training with the remainder of the squad on Thursday, a move likely to be matched by striker Andy Cooke - another player who has been told he will not start as first-choice.

"There has been no contact from any club so I will be back to fight my place and that will be the case unless anything pops up," said Esson.

"There have been some rumours about me going back to Aberdeen but my agent hasn't had any contact from them - I think that was just because one of their goalkeepers was linked with Rangers.

"All I can do is come back, keep my head down and work hard in pre-season. I know what I'm capable of and am still confident in my ability.

"Injuries ruined my season last year and if I had got a chance of a run of games, I could have proved myself more.

"It might be harder this season to get a chance but who knows what could happen in the next few weeks?"

Esson arrived at Gay Meadow with an excellent reputation after making more than 100 appearances for Aberdeen.

But a string of injuries, including a fractured cheekbone, left him kicking his heels on the touchline.

Meanwhile, Bury have denied reports that they have agreed a fee for the transfer of Marc Pugh.

Peters yesterday claimed a deal had been struck a deal - with an "undisclosed fee" - but the Shakers' response has placed confusion on that.

By James Garrison