Jabo Ibehre scooped Colchester United’s player of the year award - as the U’s stepped up their attempts to keep him at the Weston Homes Community Stadium.

The U’s striker received his trophy at the club’s awards evening, last night.

Ibehre has made a big impact for Colchester this season since arriving from MK Dons last September and finished as their joint leading goalscorer with Freddie Sears, with eight goals.

But the 30-year-old’s short-term deal expires this summer and the U’s are keen to retain his services for next year.

Colchester manager Joe Dunne said: “We’ve spoken to Jabo and we’ve put our cards on the table.

“We’ve had contract talks; a player like him will be very well sought after, considering what he’s done for us.

“We’ll be in a competitive market this summer but we’ve made our intentions clear to him.”

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