CHELMSFORD City manager Glenn Pennyfather has expressed his delight at seeing Ben Coker included in the Colchester United squad against Yeovil Town last weekend.

The 21-year-old, a summer signing from Suffolk non-league club Bury Town, proved a big success during his two-month loan spell with the Clarets recently.

City’s boss revealed it was a wrench to see the defender head back to his parent club after performing admirably for his Blue Square South side, but explained: “It was fantastic for Ben. He spent two months with us and he was an absolute pleasure to work with – a credit to himself and his club. He conducted himself fantastically well, worked hard and he’s a quality player with a fantastic left stick and a bright future in the game.

“I’ve been speaking to John Ward and Joe Dunne over at Colchester on a regular basis and they think very, very highly of him. I’m sure John Ward wouldn’t put him on a two-year contract unless they did.

“I was really pleased for Ben personally that he’s come here, got some match sharpness and helped us in our FA Cup run and also in many league wins. It’s pleasing that he’s getting his rewards now.”

Coker’s participation at Melbourne Stadium was hampered by poor weather but in the games he was able to complete he received rave reviews, leading to him taking a spot on the bench for the U’s League One encounter against Yeovil on Saturday.

He had also been a part of the Chelmsford squad which gallantly lost at League Two side Wycombe Wanderers in the second round of the FA Cup.

Pennyfather added: “I’m sure if he carries on improving and listening and learning, which I know he will, he’s going to be a real prospect. I would have loved to have kept him full time but Colchester really rate the boy.

“We wish him all the best and we’re thankful that he came to us. I’m sure he’s benefited greatly from the experience he’s had with us and it’s worked out well for both clubs.”