Antonio set for last game with the U’s

MICHAIL Antonio will return to his parent club Reading after this weekend’s League One game at Tranmere Rovers.

Winger Antonio has impressed during his loan stay at Colchester United, which began in mid-August and was later extended from one month to two, and then the maximum three.

The 21-year-old netted his fourth goal in the U’s 4-2 win over Notts County last Saturday, but the trip to Prenton Park will be his last in a U’s shirt before he returns a few days early to Reading.

The Royals do not want Antonio cup-tied, so he would not be eligible for the following weekend’s FA Cup first round tie at Crewe, after which his current loan deal ends.

“This Saturday will be Antonio’s last game for us,” revealed U’s boss John Ward this morning.

“He’s done very well for us. He has excited the fans with his pace, and he’s also scored a few goals.

“It has been a loan move that I think has helped all parties, and Brian McDermott (Reading manager) now wants him back with them, in and around his squad.

“I spoke to Brian on Monday, and told him to keep us in the picture if he was to become available again in January. I told him to make us his first phone call.

“But that would have to be a loan deal until the end of the season, which would be a big shout,” added Ward.