LUKE Garbutt is targeting the top-ten after extending his stay at Colchester United.

The Everton full-back has signed for another month, after his original deal expired last weekend.

And he cannot wait to further both his own progress and that of the team, as they try to break into the top half of League One.

“Being here has been great for me, in terms of gaining valuable experience,” he told the Gazette.

“The lads have been great and I’m learning in every single game.

“The set-up here is great and worthy of a higher league.

“Now we’ve got to keep building and pushing for the top ten.

“That’s what we should be aiming for and there’s no reason why we can’t achieve that goal.

“We should go into every game with confidence and a positive mind-set.”

Garbutt has been a big hit since joining the U’s in September.

The 20-year-old has made 18 appearances, scoring three goals, and said it was an easy decision to extend his stay at the Weston Homes Community Stadium.

“I didn’t have to think about it too much,” he said.

“It’s great for my development and this is exactly what I need at this stage of my career.

“Everton feel the same way.

“I’m obviously in contact with them and they know that it’s in my best interests to stay and play more games for Colchester.

“It’s an invaluable experience on the pitch but also off it, because as a footballer I have to get used to living in a different part of the country.

“I like it down here and feel familiar with everything now.”

Garbutt will hoping to produce another eye-catching performance in Saturday’s League One contest at home to Gillingham.

“We have to approach the game with a positive mindset and see it as one we can win,” he said.

“We have to get at them and push them high up the pitch.

“We’ve taken seven points out of 12, which is very good for a squad of our size, and hopefully we can build on that on Saturday.”

U’s boss Joe Dunne is delighted to keep Garbutt.

He said: “Luke’s done very well here and been a real hit.

“He’s got lots of ability, but I also like his work-ethic and the fact he’s so keen to learn.

“I’d like to thank Everton for allowing it to happen and I’d like to think we’ve given him valuable experience and development towards becoming a Premier League player.”