court today, where his trial date was formally set for February 6.

Riley's appearance was only to allow judge Leslie Rothenberg to determine whether or not a plea bargain had been struck or if either side needed more time to prepare their case.

A spokeswoman for Ms Rothenberg told The Royal Gazette neither had transpired.

Each of the adult soccer players awaiting trial on drugs charges in Miami will face a similar pre-trial hearing during the next two weeks.

Prosecutor Mr. David Weinstein, chief of narcotics of the Dade County Attorney's Office, on Wednesday said he was "in plea negotiations'' with the players' lawyer Mr. H.T. Smith.

He wouldn't comment further, but said if a plea bargain were struck, "we'll do it all at once''.

Barring such a deal, Riley, Herbert Dillas and Donnie Charles all have trial dates of February 6. Meshach Wade will go to trial February 13, while the trials Keishon Smith and Kevin Jennings are to begin February 21.

The trials will be before several different judges.

Tokia Russell, 17, will appear at a juvenile hearing on February 6.

They face charges of importing and possessing about eight pounds of cannabis.

The adults could be jailed up to five years if convicted.