Matt Heath has revealed he has been offered the chance to stay at Colchester United next season.

And the experienced defender is keen to join Karl Duguid and commit his future to the U’s.

Heath, 31, is one of around a dozen Colchester players who are due to see their present deals expire this summer.

But he has already spoken to U’s manager John Ward about staying at the Weston Homes Community Stadium, beyond the current campaign.

Heath said: “I’ve spoken to the gaffer about next season and hopefully I’ll be able to get something sorted out.

“I’ve been offered a contract and I’d like to stay here, as long as everything is right.

“We’re happy around the area and I’m guessing it’s a case of sorting everyone’s personal terms out and doing what’s right for yourself and your future.

“It would be nice to be here next season – I’ve had four full seasons here and it’s been the longest I’ve been at a club, aside from maybe youth team.”

See Wednesday's Gazette for more on this story and all of the latest Colchester United news, including a match report and pictures from the U's reserves game against Luton Town.