COLCHESTER United are confident of extending Freddie Sears’ loan spell from West Ham.

Front-runner Sears’ original loan deal expires after this weekend’s home game against Huddersfield, but both the U’s and the Hammers are happy for the player to stay longer.

Sears himself is also keen to remain with the U’s for the rest of the season.

Manager John Ward revealed this afternoon: “West Ham are fine. I spoke to them yesterday and we’re going to extend the loan for Freddie.

“Both clubs are happy to extend that, and I’ll be delighted if we can keep Freddie around. He is a good player.

“He’s been very professional and has respected my position, and the decisions I have had to make.

“He realises at the moment that I can’t make many alterations to accommodate him (in the team).

“But he likes the football here, he likes the place and he would like to stay here and try to get his chance.

“West Ham are happy for him to do that, and so am I,” added Ward.

Sears started the first three games of his loan spell with the U’s, but has been on the bench for the last four fixtures, three of them as an unused substitute.