UNDER siege Preston North End boss David Moyes today spoke of his disappointment at the fact he will be losing star striker Jon Macken.

The board of directors this morning confirmed they have accepted a formal transfer request from Macken, who has yet to score this season.

The 24-year-old former Manchester United youngster marked his birthday last week by handing in the request last week.

His shock move came just 10 months after he signed a near five-year deal with North End.

At the time, he said he was delighted to commit his future to the club - at least until 2005.

But a poor start to the season, following on from last year's play-off disappointment, seems to have changed his mind.

He has also been the subject of desperate attempts by Wolves to sign him. They have offered £4million for him - plus £500,000 a year in wages.

Ironically, North End's decision to allow the players to move comes a day after Nathan Blake signed for Wolves -which may end interest in Macken, who was once the fans' hero.

Tony Scholes, PNE's Chief Executive said: "It is no secret that a bid was received for Jon Macken during the summer, but this was rejected by the club as it is our stated aim to retain our best players.

"Jon has clearly become unsettled and after consultation with the team manager David Moyes, we have reluctantly accepted the transfer request, however, the player will only be sold for what we believe to be an appropriate fee."

Manager Moyes' reputation has been partly built on the fact he has done so well at brining youngsters on. Macken, Michael Appleton, Colin Murdock and now Michael Keane have all progressed through the first team under Moyes.

He said: "I am extremely disappointed that Jon has arrived at this decision. He has been a terrific player for us in recent years, but has made it clear to me that he is no longer commited to Preston North End.

"It would appear that this has been reflected in Jon's recent performances. Having signed a new contract ten months ago, I find it remarkable that Jon and his representatives now feel it would be in his best interests to leave the club."