Republic of Ireland international Graham Barrett today ruled out any prospect of returning to Colchester United this season.
The 21-year-old Arsenal striker said as he prepared for tonight's Under-21 international against Switzerland at Kilkenny: "I really enjoyed my first spell at Colchester, but another loan is not for me."
Staying away - Graham Barrett will not be returning to Layer Road
Barrett, currently in the second of a three-month loan period with First Division strugglers Brighton, pointed out there was a good chance he would be staying with the south coast club for the whole season.
He said: "I spoke with Steve Coppell, the club's new manager, at the end of last week and he told me he was very keen to keep me."
That will come as bad news for U's boss Steve Whitton who has made no secret of the fact that he would love to bring the talented Dubliner back to Layer Road and has already had one loan bid for Barrett turned down by The Gunners earlier this season.
Whitton said: "If Brighton don't keep Graham I will definitely go back in with another bid for him."
Clearly flattered by the U's faith in his ability, Barrett said: "No disrespect to Colchester, but I won't be coming back.
"I think it would be a backward step for me at this stage of my career because I've already proved myself at that level."
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Published Tuesday October 15, 2002
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