Blues boss Paul Jewell says he knows nothing of Colchester’s reported interest in Luke Hyam but wouldn’t be averse to the midfielder moving to the U’s on loan in January if they are interested. The 20-year-old, whose Town contract is up in June, is understood to be a January target of the League One club.
Jewell hinted that a loan switch for Hyam might be something he would be willing to consider: "Jamie Griffiths has gone there and if Colchester want to take Luke, it’s news to me, but he’s a terrific young professional who needs to be playing games.
"If they did [want him], I always think it’s better for young players [to be playing competitive football]. Ronan Murray’s out playing games at Swindon.
"Playing against Chelsea or Tottenham [reserves] is all right, but it’s not the real thing and Ronan Murray is playing real football.
"Jamie Griffiths went to Plymouth and probably learnt more in the two or three months he was at Plymouth than he could ever by playing in the reserves.”
The Town manager has confirmed that Great Cornard-based Griffiths, 19, will not be offered new terms with his six-month deal almost at an end: "I’ve told Jamie that we won’t be renewing his contract and he’s free to go on trial anywhere.
"He’s a great lad, with a great attitude, but I’ve told him we won’t be offering him anything after December.”
Colchester boss John Ward wouldn’t be drawn on Hyam, but confirmed that Griffiths is with the U’s: "Jamie Griffiths is working with us because we got permission from Ipswich to take him into the football club.
"We are very much aware of who is around other football clubs, particularly in our area, but I can’t talk about a player or is contracted to another club.”