OLDHAM Athletic have lost exciting prospect Jim Simms to Championship side Hull City, in a deal that was finalised under the club’s former ownership.

The 18-year-old had been keen to stay at Boundary Park. But The Oldham Times understands that an administrative oversight by former sporting director Mo Lemsagam resulted in Simms, who scored over 20 goals for the youth team last season and was knocking on the door of the first team, not being offered a professional contract.

Simms subsequently left in April, and following a successful trial was snapped up by Hull, joining their Academy on a two-year deal, with a one-year option, following the end of his two-year scholarship with Latics, meaning that he left for no fee.

“I can’t wait to become a Hull City player, I am looking forward to it,” he said in an interview with his new club.

“It is a big change in my life moving away from home, but I am looking forward to it,” he said in an interview with his new club.

“One of the main reasons coming to Hull was the pathway to the first team. It is one of the best in the country and that really made me want to come here.”

“It is a big step from League Two with Oldham last season to the Championship with Hull; I am joining a big club and I can’t wait.”

Simms, who can operate on either flank or through the middle, spent time on trial with Hull last season, playing in their Under-23s win at Wigan Athletic in April.

More recently, he featured for the Under-21s against Portimonense Under-23s in Portugal and in Hull’s friendly win over Bridlington Town.

“As soon as I came on trial in April, I had a good feeling with the lads,” he added.

“I thought the standard was really good and I just wanted to be a part of it.”