Steve Whitton is hoping Con Blatsis reproduces the form of his Colchester United debut tomorrow when the U's visit Wycombe.

The Australian centre-half signed a contract yesterday keeping him at Layer Road until the end of the season.

And, after impressing on his debut in Saturday's 3-1 success against QPR, Whitton is hoping for more of the same at Adams Park.

The U's boss said: "Con looked solid and played very well at the weekend.

"He's a big, strong centre-half who loves to defend. Another six performances likes his debut would do us nicely.

"He's here until the end of the season and then we'll have to see what the situation is, possibly with a view to keeping him longer."

Blatsis arrived at Layer Road after being released by Premiership strugglers Derby County.

Meanwhile, Portsmouth defender Carl Tyler has rejected the chance to join the U's.

"I made an approach yesterday afternoon but he's not interested in coming here," said Whitton.

The U's boss also reported no movement regarding the possible transfer of keeper Andy Woodman to Oxford United.

Whitton is without Gavin Johnson and long-term injury victims Chris Keeble and Joe Dunne for tomorrow's trip to Wycombe.

Johnson was due to make his comeback for the reserves in midweek but suffered a recurrence of his hip injury.

"Otherwise we're fit and raring to go tomorrow," said Whitton. "We'll be looking to build on our success against QPR."

The U's Youth Alliance Cup semi-final clash with Walsall has been rearranged for Wednesday, April 3.

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Published Friday, March 22, 2002