Luke Garbutt has established himself as a key player for Colchester United, according to boss Joe Dunne.

The U’s are set to retain the services of the young left-back on loan from Premier League side Everton, until January.

And as the deal counts as a youth loan, there is a possibility that Garbutt could extend his stay at the Weston Homes Community Stadium for longer.

Garbutt has made a big impact since joining Colchester from the Toffees last September, having started ten games for the U’s.

Dunne said: “Luke has a lot of attacking qualities.

“Every young player has things that he has to work on.

“But what he gives us is a wonderful left foot and he gives us assists from set-pieces.

“He can also score goals and he’s a key player.”

Garbutt is suspended for Colchester’s home game against Swindon Town tomorrow after picking up five yellow cards.

For a three-page preview of Colchester's game with Swindon, see Friday's Daily Gazette.