Out-of-contract Colchester United duo David Prutton and Phil Ifil have been offered new deals by manager Aidy Boothroyd.

Out-of-contract Colchester United duo David Prutton and Phil Ifil have been offered new deals by manager Aidy Boothroyd.

After being released by Leeds United, Prutton joined the U’s on a short-term deal in January and quickly established himself as a regular in the midfield over the second half of the season.

Meanwhile, Ifil – who was out of favour under Paul Lambert in 2008/9 – made 30 appearances under Boothroyd. Those games came in fits and starts, but his ability to play at right-back or right-midfield mean he has been given another chance.

Elsewhere, talks continue with Marc Tierney regarding the extension of the highly-regarded left-back’s deal.

“There is an offer on the table for Marc Tierney and discussions carry on with him,” said Boothroyd.

“He has a year left on his current deal and we have time to discuss things with him.”

Four players that won’t be with Colchester next season are Scott Vernon, Matt Lockwood, Sam Corcoran and Russell Malton. The quartet all spent time out on loan this season and, having reached the end of their deals, have been informed they won’t be offered new ones.

David Perkins and Joel Thomas were also sent out on loan this campaign and Boothroyd revealed that there has been interest in the duo.

“Unless we receive offers in the close season, the other players that have been out on loan will be reporting for the first day of pre-season,” said the U’s boss.

“We have had interest and phone calls about David Perkins and Joel Thomas already, so we will see what develops there.”