CHESTER defender Sam Hughes admits he was left frustrated after a potential move to Championship club Barnsley in January was scuppered.
The Blues, enjoying a promising season in the National League, revealed they rejected a “significant” offer for Hughes while also turning down a bid for striker James Alabi.
Hughes, 19, has impressed at the back for Jon McCarthy's side this season and has reportedly been watched by a number of Championship clubs.
Barnsley were keen but no deal could be agreed with Chester and Hughes will now spend the rest of the season at the Deva Stadium.
Blues chief executive Mark Maguire has said the club would likely receive more via tribunal than what Barnsley offered if Hughes decides to leave the club at the end of the campaign.
Hughes has expressed his disappointment at not being able to make to step up as Chester look to get back into play-off contention in the National League.
The youngster told the Chester Standard: “These things happen in football. I was aware there were a couple of clubs looking at me and then Barnsley made a bid, but at the end of the day it wasn't meant to be.
“It didn't happen for whatever reasons and I've got to get my head down now and focus on playing here.
“It's frustrating at the same time because everyone wants to achieve the most they can and play as high as they can. That's not just in football it's in anything they do. But as I touched on before, it wasn't meant to be, it didn't happen.
“That frustration has to be put to one side now, it's happened. I've got to kick on and get back in the team.
“My only focus now is to get back into this team, that window has gone now, the transfer window has shut and what is meant to be, is meant to be. I hold nothing against anyone, they've done what's best for the club and it's now time for me to get back into the team and get back to where I was before the injury.”
