Bristol City midfielder Jonny Smith has extended his loan with Oldham Athletic until the end of the season, the League Two side have announced.

Smith joined Oldham on loan until the end of the season during the summer transfer window, and has so far made a total of 23 appearances in all competitions, scoring seven goals.

There had been reports earlier this month claiming that League One Blackpool, as well as Oldham's League Two rivals Newport and Swindon had been interested in a move for the 22-year-old.

Oldham however, have now revealed that despite there being a recall clause in Smith's contract for this month, an improved deal has now been agreed with Bristol City to keep the midfielder at Boundary Park until the end of the season.

Speaking to the club's official website following confirmation of the new deal for Smith, Oldham manager Dino Maamria said: "The club has worked very hard to get this done after interest from others due to the fine form he has been in.

"He's a big part of this team this season and he's really enjoying his time here, so it was only right we tried to keep a hold of him, which I am sure the fans will be happy about.”

Oldham are currently 18th in the League Two table, having taken 29 points from their 28 league games so far this season.

The Verdict

This looks to be a big boost for Oldham.

Smith has certainly played a big part in the campaign for the Latics so far, and the fact they have agreed to an improved deal to keep him at Boundary Park seems to highlight just how highly he is thought of there.

Given his experiences this season, this ought to be a deal that suits Smith and Bristol City as well, since he looks well set to be given the game time he needs to continue to develop his abilities.