John McGreal has stressed that any interest in his in-form Colchester United players during this month’s transfer window would not be welcome.

The U’s impressive performances have been catching the eye over recent weeks and their seven-match unbeaten run in League Two has led to them inevitably receiving some admiring glances.

But boss McGreal says his players are going nowhere in January – and insists any phone calls from potential suitors enquiring about his prize gems will not be answered!

McGreal said: “I know there’s going to be interest, when you look at the quality of the players we have.

“With the form that they’ve been hitting of late, they’re going to get noticed just as the football club has been recognised for the run that we’ve been on.

“It’s going to happen but we’re in a position where players are going nowhere and everyone is happy.

“At this moment, I don’t think we have had anything and long may that continue, because I don’t want anyone ringing me up.

“If they do, I won’t return their calls to be honest!”

Meanwhile, McGreal admits Colchester are looking to strengthen his squad in this month’s window but insists nothing is imminent.

Colchester have been linked with a loan move for Barnsley forward Elliot Lee but McGreal would not be drawn on the speculation.

“We’ve got a few irons in the fire – I’m not going to talk about individual players but we are on the outlook for a couple of players,” said McGreal.

“I wouldn’t have thought there’ll be any new signings before the Carlisle match.

“At this minute, probably not but it is a process that we are looking at.”