TONY Humes has vowed to be patient in his quest to get Freddie Sears tied down on a new contract at Colchester United.

The club’s top-scorer becomes a free agent next summer and negotiations have started regarding a new deal.

However, Humes says the front man is “thinking about his options” and admits it is a situation he may have to revisit after Christmas.

“We’re not there yet with Freddie and it might be something we look at in January,” said the U’s boss, whose side will be aiming to bounce back from their 6-0 defeat at MK Dons in Sunday’s televised FA Cup clash with Peterborough United.

For the full story, see Wednesday's Gazette.