John Halls has paid tribute to Steve Whitton and his former Colchester United team-mates after ending his short stay at Layer Road.
John Halls (right) - returning to the Gunners
The defender made the surprise decision to return to Arsenal after his month-long loan ended following Saturday's draw with Blackpool.
U's boss Whitton was keen to keep Halls for another month or possibly until the end of the season. Gunners staff also urged the player to further his career at Layer Road.
But Halls, who made six appearances during his time with the U's, is determined to forge his way into Arsene Wenger's plans at Highbury.
He said: "Playing first-team games for Colchester was a great experience, but I feel the time's right to go back to Arsenal.
"I've had a brilliant time and couldn't speak highly enough of the lads there or the manager.
"I feel my game's improved in the last few weeks. Division Two football is more competitive and physical than I've been used to and it's been a real learning curve."
Whitton said: "It's disappointing but we've got players coming back from injury. People like Thomas Pinault and Kem Izzet are looking sharp while Ross Johnson and David Gregory should be back in contention soon."
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Published Tuesday, February 19, 2002
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