Ben Coker is “ecstatic” to be offered a two-year deal with Colchester United.

However, the youngster knows he may have to be patient to get his chance in the U’s first team this season after stepping out of non-league football.

The 20-year-old former Bury Town player has been offered a contract with the U’s after impressing manager John Ward while on trial during their pre-season preparations.

Coker has put in some solid performances on the left in both defence and - as he did in the first half of the U’s 3-0 win at Maldon and Tiptree FC on Saturday - in midfield.

It has been enough to demonstrate his potential to Ward and Coker said he was “buzzing” after getting the deal, but realises the hard work is just beginning.

“I’m absolutely loving it,” he said.

“I’ve been training every day, which is different from non-league and I’m really enjoying it.

“The manager has offered me a contract.

“It’s a two-year deal so I’m ecstatic to get that.

“I’m really buzzing and now I can try to get myself in and around the squad.

“I can’t wait to get going now.”

See today's Gazette for the full story and more from the U's 3-0 win at Maldon and Tiptree