He may only be 22 years young.

But Sam Walker says he is relishing being one of the elder statesman in Colchester United’s fledgling side.

The popular goalkeeper has played his part in the U’s young team becoming a more resilient force in League One, over recent weeks.

Walker has helped the U’s keep three clean sheets in their last four matches.

And the ex-Chelsea shot-stopper has done so in a team where under new boss Tony Humes, the average age has been less than 23.

“I’ve come into games thinking I’m one of the more experienced members of the side, which I really thrive on,” said Walker.

“The manager has told me what he expects of me and what he wants me to do with the back four, especially with it being so young at the moment.

“I’m really pleased with the way it’s going defensively - it’s been quite a turnaround really with three clean sheets from four, considering we didn’t pick up any before that.

“Barring the carnage that was the eight minutes at the end of the Sheffield United game, it probably would have been four.

“We look solid and difficult to break down and it feels like it’s going to have to be a good goal to get through us.

“The way I see it is that if I can organise them to a point where we limit our opponents’ opportunities, then it’s worked for me.

“My role hasn’t changed much at all under the new manager.”

For more on this story and a three-page preview of the U's game against Crewe Alexandra, see Friday's Daily Gazette.