Soccer: Whitton hopes to keep Micky

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Steve Whitton has revealed he is close to thrashing out a new deal with veteran midfielder Micky Stockwell.

The Colchester United boss is confident that last season's player-of-the-year will agree to stay at Layer Road for another year.

Whitton said today: "We are very close to finalising details on a new contract. I am confident that Micky will sign and he has indicated to me that he wants to stay at the club.

"From my point of view, he still has a major role to play and his vast experience is invaluable to us."

Stockwell has made 52 appearances and scored 11 goals for the U's this season.

The 37-year-old joined Colchester in July 2000 on a free transfer from Ipswich and has become an integral part of the midfield.

He also made an instant impact with U's fans who enjoy Stockwell's all-action and hard-working displays.

Whitton added: "We're trying to bring young players on at the club. And it's really helped having Micky in the midfield to help the likes of Kem Izzet and Thomas Pinault learn the ropes."

With the season now over, the futures of Alan White and Bobby Bowry still have to be decided. Whitton will meet the players early next month for talks.

Ross Johnson has already been released by the club while Gavin Johnson is on a month-to-month contract until he proves his fitness

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Published Wednesday, April 24, 2002

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