Colchester keen to keep Baldwin

Centre-back Baldwin has played 187 games for Colchester

Colchester United are in discussions with Pat Baldwin over extending his stay at the Community Stadium.

The former Chelsea defender has been an important part of the side since Paul Lambert took over as manager.

Baldwin has made 187 appearances for the U's and is keen to remain with the League One club.

"I've spoken to the manager and he's said he wants me to stay and I'd like to think we can get something sorted," he told BBC Essex.

606: DEBATE

Lambert needs to be given a chance to assemble his own squad and I hope our performances next season will allay the concerns

colu_mike7

Baldwin almost went out on loan to Hereford earlier this season when Kit Symons took over as caretaker manager, following Geraint Williams's departure, but he decided to stay with Colchester.

"With the players the manager wants to bring in I think we can have a decent season next year and I'd like to be a part of that," said Baldwin.

The 26-year-old centre-back joined Colchester from Chelsea in 2002 and played a major part when they were promoted to the Championship four years later before last season's relegation.

Colchester struggled to adjust to life back in League One and Baldwin is keen to return to the higher level.

"We just haven't been good enough this season, we win a couple of games and then slip up when perhaps we shouldn't but this is a hard division," he added.