Colchester United boss Steve Whitton has received a boost with the news Karl Duguid has agreed a new two-year contract at Layer Road.

The U's boss said: "Karl has had a good couple of seasons and been playing particularly well at right-back in the absence of Joe Dunne."

Meanwhile keeper Andy Woodman was due to return to Layer Road today after his month-long loan at Oxford United.

The Third Division club wanted to sign him on a permanent deal after he impressed during his stay at the club, but that was blocked by Whitton.

Gavin Johnson has been ruled out of Saturday's clash with Bristol City at Layer Road. The midfielder suffered a recurrence of an old hip injury against Blackpool.

U's youth-teamer Matt Hearn is having a trial with Essex rivals Southend United.

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Published Tuesday, February 19, 2002