David Perkins is set to be rewarded with a new contract by Colchester United.

And the hard-working midfielder is expected to agree to extend his stay with the U’s.

Perkins, who has started all but one of Colchester’s league games this season, has been one of their most consistent performers in League One.

He is one of a number of players out of contract at the Weston Homes Community Stadium in the summer.

Perkins - who joined Colchester from Rochdale in July 2008 - did not figure under former boss Aidy Boothroyd last season.

The 28-year-old spent much of last year out on loan at Chesterfield and Stockport County.

But he has been an integral part of John Ward’s plans so far in this campaign.

And the U’s are now keen to tie the former Morecambe man down for a longer period.

For more on this story and all of the latest Colchester United news, including a full preview of their game at Notts County tonight, see Tuesday's Gazette.