COLCHESTER United skipper Karl Duguid has scotched rumours that he is about to slap in a transfer request.Duguid was reported in a Sunday national newspaper to be unhappy with the arrival of the well-paid Teddy Sheringham supposedly upsetting the wage-bill, and so was keen to leave Layer Road.

By Carl Marston

COLCHESTER United skipper Karl Duguid has scotched rumours that he is about to slap in a transfer request.

Duguid was reported in a Sunday national newspaper to be unhappy with the arrival of the well-paid Teddy Sheringham supposedly upsetting the wage-bill, and so was keen to leave Layer Road.

But the 29-year-old eased the concerns of worried U's supporters by speaking to the EADT last night and insisting that he was “going nowhere.”

In fact, U's stalwart Duguid, the Essex club's longest serving player, went further by revealing that he couldn't wait to play in the same team as one of his footballing heroes. It's all lies. There's no way I'm leaving Colchester,” said Duguid last night.

“It couldn't be further from the truth. I haven't asked for a transfer, and it's of no concern to me how much Teddy Sheringham is being paid. I don't mind one little bit.

“I signed a new contract in January, and I'm happy with it. I got what I asked for, and now I'm looking forward to the new season.

“I don't know where this story has come from. One of my mates rang me up this morning, having read a paragraph in one of the Sundays.

“I'm a Colchester player, and that's how it will stay for the new season. I was happy with my contract in January, and I'm still happy with it now,” added Duguid. The versatile Duguid is therefore still on course to make his 400th first team appearance for the U's, on the opening day of the new season at Sheffield United.

And he is looking forward to playing in the same side as Sheringham, who signed a one-year deal last week. The former England striker, who has starred for the likes of Manchester United, Tottenham and West Ham during his distinguished career, will meet his new team-mates when pre-season training officially begins this morning.

“I was a Tottenham fan as a youngster, so it will be a pleasure to be in the same side as Teddy (Sheringham),” continued Duguid.

“I've always followed his career with interest, not just his Tottenham career but also his England career. I'm looking forward to learning off him, and perhaps setting up a few goals for him!

“I think that Teddy still has a lot to give, and to offer. He's a great player to watch, and I'll be proud to play alongside him.”