Steve Whitton was last week waiting to hear if his latest find Kemal Izzet is ready to become a permanent Colchester United player.

The 20-year-old pint-sized Charlton Athletic loanee has made such an impact since his transfer deadline day arrival at Layer Road that the U's boss has made the youngster an offer he's hoping he can't refuse.

Whitton said on Friday as he prepared his squad for the away trip to Notts County: "I would like to sign Kemal on a permanent basis.

"I have offered him a contract and he went away last night to discuss the matter with his agent and family.

"I told him I keep reading how keen he is to play League football for Colchester and I'm hoping he will come back today with some good news for us."

Certain to be in the U's starting line-up at Meadow Lane tomorrow, Izzet - who kept his place in the side that beat Swansea in midweek following his League debut as a substitute against Luton - is probably the most exciting player to hit Layer Road since Lomana Tresor Lua Lua.

Whitton said: "I knew from the moment I saw Kem against Luton he has what it takes to handle the pressures of League football.

"Some Premiership reserve lads who have never played League football before find it very difficult, but Kem got stuck in straight away and really rose to the challenge."

Exciting propspect - U's midfielder Kemal Izzet in action against Swansea

Picture: STEVE BRADING

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