COLCHESTER United manager Joe Dunne has hailed the versatility of teenager Alex Gilbey.

And the U’s boss has urged the midfielder to stay focused, with attempts to keep him at the club ongoing.

Gilbey’s current contract is due to expire in the summer and the talented 18-year-old is yet to put pen to paper on a deal.

But Gilbey has stated how much he is enjoying playing under Dunne, after being given his first-team chance by the Irishman last season.

And the Colchester manager wants the youngster to continue to concentrate on playing games regularly in League One.

Dunne said: “We are where we are with (the contract situation).

“Both parties know where we are, in terms of the offer and the length (of the contract).

“I’ve spoken to Alex’s agent and everybody knows that.

“That’s as far as we go at the moment but he’s in a team where his manager is picking him every week.

“He just has to stay focused on that.”

Gilbey has started Colchester’s last ten league and cup games and played in a variety of positions for the side.

The U’s youth-team product has played centrally and on both flanks this season and has also filled in at full-back.

Gilbey is one of Colchester’s leading appearance-makers so far this season and his form has impressed Dunne.

“Alex has done very well for us and he’s played in a number of positions for us,” added the Colchester manager.

“He hasn’t been able to play in his natural position which allows him to go box to box.

“That’s unfortunate for him in some ways but you can’t question Alex’s commitment to the club because it’s excellent.

“He’ll play anywhere for us and on such young shoulders, it’s a credit to him.”