U's hopeful of Williams stay (From Gazette)

U's hopeful of Williams stay

11:01am Thursday 14th June 2012 in Sport By Jonathan Waldron

Colchester United goalkeeper coach Ademola Bankole is optimistic that Ben Williams will commit his future to the club.

Williams is one of four senior U’s players who are out of contract this summer and are yet to pen new deals.

The reliable goalkeeper - along with Magnus Okuonghae, skipper Kem Izzet and Lloyd James - are still mulling over offers to stay at the Weston Homes Community Stadium.

Williams, 29, has made 125 appearances for Colchester since joining them from Carlisle United, in 2009.

And after speaking to him last week, Bankole is hopeful that the former Manchester United youngster is going to stay put.

Bankole said: “The impression that Ben’s given me is that he’s going to stay.

“I spoke to him last Thursday and that’s what he told me.

“He enjoys playing for the club and I know that he’s been very happy at Colchester.

“He has spoken to the manager and he’s feeling positive about it.

“If Ben were to stay, it would be a great boost for the club.

“He is very consistent and that is the key to being a good goalkeeper.

“Ben makes the odd mistake like any goalkeeper but it’s only once in a while.

“I believe he is one of the best goalkeepers in League One.

“That is why I’m really hoping that he’ll stay with us.”

See Thursday's Gazette for more on this story and all of the latest Colchester United news.