A top-six berth awaits Colchester United next season - according to West Ham United supremo Alan Pardew.

The Hammers boss sung the praises of the U's, having watched his Championship side beat them 2-1 at Layer Road in Karl Duguid's testimonial match last night.

Pardew, a good friend and confidant of Colchester chief Phil Parkinson, said: "I think they'll definitely finish in the top six next season.

"They've got some good players. Their two full-backs, Sam Stockley and Greg Halford, are top quality and they're going to be there or thereabouts."

The former Reading boss added: "And you have to say that if they do finish in the top six, on the budget Phil is working with, it would be superb."

Published Thursday July 29, 2004

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