Sears Sent To Colchester

Is this the beginning of the end or the start of a resurgence for Freddie Sears? Will the man who collects goals like Susan Boyle collects toy boys finally find his shooting boots, or will this prove the final nail in his footballing coffin?

There's not a West Ham fan in the world who isn't praying for Freddie to hit the ground running for Colchester. Most of us still harbour a hope in our hearts that the boy will come good. After all, Zola rated him and Zola knows a bit about strikers.

Role back the clock to that debut goal and we all dreamt of a new Tony Cottee. But as every game has gone by, without even a hint of a goal, Sears has looked increasingly like a eunuch at an orgy: he's there, but he's no bloody use to anybody!

But maybe, all he needs is a goal. Maybe one will bring two, and two will bring three, and three will bring four. Maybe!

But then again, maybe not!

The next month is crucial for Freddie.