Colchester United boss Tony Humes has reiterated his desire to keep loanee Callum Harriott at the club for longer.

But the U’s boss admits he is already “actively looking at replacements”, should the skilful winger return to parent club Charlton Athletic in January.

Harriott’s future at the Valley remains uncertain following last week’s departure of their head coach Guy Luzon, with Belgian Karel Fraeye placed in interim charge.

The 21-year-old, who is out of contract at Charlton next summer, has shone since joining the U’s on loan from the Addicks in August, making 13 and scoring three times.

Humes admits he will be left disappointed if Harriott returns to Charlton – but says he is weighing up replacements should the worst-case scenario occur.

Humes said: “Callum’s a Charlton player so whatever they want will happen in January.

“He’s very effervescent and a great, positive character around the place.

“It’ll be disappointing for us if he does go back.

“But given how well he’s done for us, I’ll imagine they’ll have a look and see if he can give something to them in a position they need.

“We want to keep him but it’s their decision and we’ll have to abide for it.

“If he does go back, it’s a position where we’re actively looking at replacements.

“We have to think that way, because he’s their player.”

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