Colchester United could make Sam Hornby deal permanent

The 27-year-old goalkeeper has made a good impression since joining the U's on loan from their League Two rivals Bradford City, in January.

Hornby, who made his first Colchester start in more than two months when he featured in their 2-2 draw with Walsall on Saturday, has made seven appearances for the club.

U's interim head coach Wayne Brown has hinted they could make a move for the experienced goalkeeper, who has a year remaining on his Bradford contract.

Brown said: "We're looking at a number of players in the summer to try and strengthen the club and I'm sure Sam will be on our radar.

"Whenever Sam's come in, he's been brilliant.

"With Sam, we've brought in another number one as well as Sham (George) and not just a back-up goalkeeper.

"I think that's important to stress, because Sham needs to be pushed and he has been pushed - Sam kept him out the team, after Sham's suspension.

"That was the idea and not only has Sam been good when we've asked him to do a job on the pitch; in training, he gives 100 per cent every day.

"He's a solid pro and he's not let us down.

"It was the case again (against Walsall) and he's made some really important saves for us."

Shamal George (pictured below) was crowned Colchester United's Player of the Year after the Walsall game.

The 24-year-old, who has made 32 appearances for Colchester this season, also landed the CUSA Home Player of the Year award.

"It's a little bit of reward for Sham," said Brown.

"He's been a great asset to us as a football club and the team, with some big, big performances.

"It's testament to him and I'm chuffed for him, because there's a little bit of reward at the end of it."

Brown also had words of praise for Cole Skuse (pictured above), who won Colchester's Players' Player of the Year trophy.

The experienced midfielder, who missed the Walsall draw with a hamstring injury, has been a picture of consistency for the U's, in his first season with the club.

Brown added: "I don't think it can be argued by anyone.

"Players' Player is always nice, because it's your fellow pros and your fellow team-mates voting for you.

"It's no coincidence that he's won.

"He's played 46 games to date and he's been immense."