Could Kinsella Replace Harford?

Colchester United fans believe that Charlton Athletic youth team coach Mark Kinsella could replace Mick Harford as the club`s assistant manager.

Kinsella, demoted unceremoniously following the arrival of Alan Pardew in London last season, would be an obvious candidate for the post should Harford, 48, choose to join QPR, whom he is due to hold talks with “in the next seven days.”

Having been linked with the Luton managerial post in the wake of Mike Newell`s departure earlier in the year, former Rotherham manager Harford is set to become number two to John Gregory after Colchester granted him permission to speak to the London club.

In a statement, Colchester`s Chief Executive, Marie Partner, said: “There have been ongoing discussions since that time and, based on the reasons for Mick’s request, serious consideration had to be given before permission was granted.

“This was confirmed to Mick late last night (Sunday), allowing him to speak to QPR. The decision was not taken lightly and the reasons for this will become clearer.”

Should Harford, hired by George Williams a year ago, leave the club, Kinsella would be a favourite among U`s fans to replace him, having been a former Colchester player and now Hall of Fame member.