Republic of Ireland Under-21 international Graham Barrett will soon be a Colchester United player again if boss Steve Whitton has his way.

The U's manager revealed today that he would love to bring the talented Arsenal wide man back to Layer Road as he prepared his squad for tomorrow's tough Second Division away clash with relegated Crewe Alexandra at Gresty Road.

Whitton said: "I watched Graham play for Arsenal reserves against Fulham on Wednesday night and would like to work another loan deal to bring him back to Colchester.

"I don't know what the lad's ambitions for the future are, but I have watched him playing at Highbury for two seasons and he's an excellent player. He's one of my best-ever signings.

"In his first spell with us he believed he was the best player on the pitch and he was.

"A move back to Colchester is up to him now and, ultimately, Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger."

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Published Friday August 16, 2002

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