QPR talks for Harford

Colchester have given permission for assistant manager Mick Harford to speak to QPR about joining John Gregory’s coaching staff at Loftus Road.

Former England striker Harford, 48, is in demand after helping steer the Essex club to an impressive 10th-placed finish in their first-ever season in the Coca-Cola Championship.

The ex-Rotherham manager was brought in alongside Us boss Geraint Williams at the beginning of last season, and was also linked with the vacant managerial post at his former club Luton earlier this year.

In a statement on the club’s official website, www.cu-fc.com, chief executive Marie Partner said: “Assistant manager Mick Harford approached the club in the early part of last week to seek permission to speak to Queens Park Rangers.

“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, allowing him to speak to QPR. The decision was not taken lightly and the reasons for this will become clearer.”

The news comes as a further blow to Williams, who lost striker Chris Iwelumo on a free transfer to Charlton last month while top-scorer Jamie Cureton has also asked to leave.

Gregory’s previous number two, Richard Hill, was suspended indefinitely by the club following February’s infamous brawl with the China Olympic team.

Gregory told www.qpr.co.uk: “I’ve personally been given permission to speak to Mick Harford and I will be sitting down with him in the next seven days.”