Summer Town target Greg Halford says he is happy with Colchester United and hopes to see out the remaining three years of his contract at Layer Road. Earlier in the week Halford was reported to be one of Joe Royle's first targets should the Blues win promotion.

The versatile Halford has the chance to show what he can do against Premiership opposition when Colchester face Blackburn in the FA Cup on Saturday. Rovers, as well as Arsenal, Sunderland and Charlton, are another side said to have been eyeing Halford's progress.

The 20-year-old, who can play at right-back, up front or in midfield, says that although he is aware of the interest he isn't thinking about a move at present: "I suppose that there will be a lot of scouts at the game, and it's another opportunity for me and the rest of the team.

"However, I'm just happy to be playing for Colchester United. I have three years left on my contract, and I hope to be here in three years' time."

Halford says he is mainly concerned with making one position his own, having moved around the pitch this season, albeit successfully.

The Chelmsford-born player first came into the Colchester first team last season at right-back but scored a hat-trick while playing up front against Rushden and Diamonds earlier this season.

Clubs interested in signing Halford would probably have to part with around £500,000.

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