DEAN Gerken is set for a quickfire return to Colchester United, following Darlington's slide into administration this week.

Carl Marston

DEAN Gerken is set for a quickfire return to Colchester United, following Darlington's slide into administration this week.

Gerken is currently on his second month on loan with the Quakers, but the 23-year-old keeper might now be returning to the Community Stadium earlier than expected, due to the North-East club's financial woes.

They were deducted 10 points by the Football League yesterday, as punishment for going into administration.

“Dean (Gerken) might be coming back soon. He might have to, with Darlington's current plight,” admitted U's boss Paul Lambert.

“I'll be having a chat with Dave Penney (Quakers manager) over the next few days, but Dean will probably be coming back.”

Ironically, the U's current first-choice keeper, Jimmy Walker, might also be on his way next week. His third and final month on loan from West Ham expires next Thursday.

The U's originally tried to sign Walker on a loan deal until the end of the season, although the Football Association have insisted that the Essex club missed the deadline (on February 1).

“We are doing everything that we can to rectify the situation. As yet, nothing has changed,” said Lambert.

“The chairman (Robbie Cowling) is on the FA's case nearly every day, and we are hoping that something can be sorted out. I know for a fact that we sent the paperwork on time before the 5pm transfer deadline.

“I'll do everything I can to keep Jimmy Walker at this club. He's been brilliant. I'd even pay his wages myself if I could!” added Lambert wryly.