BEN Coker is fast, but even he admits that he is no match for Michail Antonio.

BEN Coker is fast, but even he admits that he is no match for Michail Antonio.

Coker and Antonio have teamed up to good effect down the left flank during Colchester United’s last two league games, which yielded four points against Oldham (4-1 win) and at Scunthorpe (1-1 draw).

Former Bury Town favourite Coker has replaced a below-par Michael Rose in the left-back role, and has suddenly found himself forming a dynamic partnership with left winger Antonio.

And while Coker has been happy with his recent performances, he confesses that Reading loanee Antonio is the man in the fast lane.

He is quite simply the U’s answer to Usain Bolt.

“Antonio, the lad is rapid!” insisted Coker, ahead of tomorrow’s home against bottom club Leyton Orient.

“He is probably the quickest player I have ever played with, or come up against.

“It’s brilliant playing down the same flank as him. Sometimes you just need to give Antonio the ball. There’s no need to go around him (on the over-lap) because I won’t get near him!”

Antonio is initially on loan from Reading for one month – the deal expires next week – although U’s boss John Ward is trying to have that deal extended.

Recruited from Ryman League club Bury Town in the summer of 2010, Coker made 20 appearances for the U’s last season.

He initially lost his place to close-season signing Rose during the opening weeks of this campaign, but is now back in the starting line-up.

“It feels very good to be in the team, and hopefully I can stay there as long as I can,” continued Coker.

“It was a bit frustrating at the start of the season, but I’ve worked hard and have started to get into the team.

“I feel a part of things now, but I want to establish myself more. The team’s attacking style of play suits my game, because I always try to get forward as a full-back.

“The gaffer likes to get the full backs moving on and to get the ball wide, so for me it’s brilliant.”