Colchester Hope For Hogan Ephraim

Colchester United have admitted that they are very keen on securing the services of West Ham`s Hogan Ephraim, a la last season.

The England youth starlet, a known admirer of U`s new signing Teddy Sheringham, is thought to a realistic target given the Hammers’ lavish spending this summer.

And, despite the selection headache that his return would present U`s boss Geriant Williams, the manager has admitted in the Colchester Evening Gazette that he would be interested in bringing him back to Essex.

“Hogan`s a player I would love to have back,” said the Welshman. “We`ve made no secret of that, but he signed a new deal at West Ham and they wanted to have a look at him pre-season,” he added.

Following that period, and with the new Championship season due to begin in 20 days, West Ham have reportedly told Ephraim that he needs more first-team practice and would do well to get it on loan.

Williams concluded: “We`re monitoring the situation.”