Colchester United boss Steve Whitton could have some serious competition for the signature of Graham Barrett on a loan deal - should Arsenal decide to let him go.
Following Barrett's explosion onto the full international scene last week, when the 21-year-old scored on his debut against Finland, he has come to the attention of many Nationwide League scouts.
Barrett is currently languishing in Arsenal's reserves and seems to be well down the pecking order with the emergence of players like 19-year-old Jeremie Aliadiere, who bagged his first goal for the Gunners in last night's 5-2 win over West Bromwich Albion.
Whitton said: "We are still waiting to hear from Arsenal. We have asked permission again to take Graham on a short or long-term loan but we've got to wait and see."
He added: "I know there are a number of First Division clubs looking at him, including Stoke, who have contacted me and asked me about him.
"The thing in our favour is he has been here before, did well for us, and we are not too far from his home base."
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Published Wednesday August 28, 2002
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