Goalkeeping legend Peter Shilton says Sam Walker’s consistent form for Colchester United will help further enhance his growing reputation in the game.

Shilton, who lives in the Colchester area, believes performing well on a regular basis will help the U’s shot-stopper get noticed.

Walker, who has not missed a league game for Colchester since joining them in January 2013, has played his part in the U’s recording four clean sheets in their last five games.

Only Walsall keeper Richard O’Donnell has enjoyed more shut-outs in League One, so far this season.

And legend Shilton, who is England’s most capped player, believes performing to a high standard on a frequent basis will do Walker’s prospects no harm at all.

Shilton said: “Consistency is so important for any player and in particular, young goalkeepers like Sam.

“There are a lot of players who have ability but to be a top player you need a lot more than that - you need to show it on a regular basis.

“As a player, you’re bound to make mistakes at times but it’s how you get over them.

“You have to improve and work hard but the consistency side of thing is the main thing.

“You have to go through that to become a proper player.”

Walker, who celebrates his 23rd birthday today, is currently enjoying his first full season as a Colchester player, having joined them on a permanent basis from Chelsea this summer.

Shilton says it is important that Walker continues to play well week in, week out, if he wants to move back up the divisions.

“When you’ve been at a big club like Chelsea, sometimes you have to drop into the lower leagues,” added Shilton, who played for the likes of Nottingham Forest, Derby County and Southampton during his illustrious 30-year playing career.

“A lot of players have to do that these days in England and at some clubs, you get more of a chance as a young player.

“That’s why clubs like Southampton produce so many good young players, because they know they’ll get a chance there.

“But all you can do if you drop down the leagues is perform.

“You still have the sticks and the goal to protect, the saves to make and the defence to encourage and organise.

“If you do that consistently well and at a good level, you’re going to get noticed.”

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