Colchester United boss, Joe Dunne, saluted his goalkeeper Sam Walker for a superb display during this afternoon’s goalless draw at MK Dons.

Walker was in tremendous form between the sticks, especially during the final quarter of the game when he pulled off a series of terrific saves to thwart the dominant Dons.

“When needed, he was reliable,” explained Dunne.

“That’s the goalkeeper’s job, and that’s what Sam does very, very well.

“He is paid to do that, but his saves were exceptional.

“Most of the shots were limited to long range, but he saw some of the shots late and his reactions were very good.

“You need your goalkeeper to play well at places like this, and Sam did. We are grateful to him,” added Dunne.

The U’s now face a fight to keep Walker beyond his initial loan spell from Chelsea, which expires in a fortnight’s time.

On today’s performance, the 22-year-old could be hot property in the transfer market, either on a permanent or loan basis.