Penalty hero Sam Walker helped Colchester United seal a huge victory against Leyton Orient – and then hinted he could return to the club next season.

The young goalkeeper saved Kevin Lisbie’s late spot-kick to help the U’s claim a vital 2-1 win over the O’s and boost their League One survival hopes.

Walker has impressed since joining Colchester on loan from Premier League club Chelsea in January, prompting U’s boss Joe Dunne to describe his contribution as “immense”.

And having boosted their chances of avoiding the drop, the 21-year-old said there is a chance he could be back at the U’s again, next season.

Walker said: “I have a year left on my contract at Chelsea and we’ll have a chat at the end of the season.

“It will probably be a case of going back out on loan again, next season.

“There’ve been some preliminary talks about me coming back to Colchester but nothing’s set in stone yet.

“I’ve really, really enjoyed my time here.

“I’ve really taken to the club and it seems as though the fans have taken to me."

See Monday's Gazette for more on this story and all of the latest Colchester United news, including a full match report, pictures and reaction to the U's big win over Leyton Orient.