Alex Gilbey has spoken about his desire to stay at Colchester United, and see his career flourish under Joe Dunne.

Talented midfielder Gilbey has stalled over signing a new contract with the U’s – his current deal expires next summer.

But the 18-year-old is adamant that he wants to stay at the League One club.

“I’m really happy at Colchester United, this is where I want to be,” insisted Gilbey, following Saturday’s 3-0 home defeat to Wolves.

“I want to be at Colchester, playing under this gaffer (Joe Dunne).

“I leave all the contract talk to other people. I just want to play for this club and play for this gaffer, so that’s where I will be.

“His (Dunne’s) style of play really suits me. As a young lad I always looked up to him, and now I am playing for him and playing the way he wants is really good.

“He gives us younger players a chance, people like Freddie (Ladapo), Sammy (Szmondics), Conor (Hubble) and myself.

“You’ve juts got to be confident, as a youngster, because he will give you your chance,” added Gilbey.

See today’s East Anglian Daily Times newspaper for more quotes from Alex Gilbey, plus a report and reaction from the 3-0 defeat at Wolves