Colchester United have offered midfielder Lloyd James a new contract.

The midfield playmaker, who is currently on loan at League Two promotion-chasers Crawley Town, was due to see his present deal expire at the end of the season.

However, U’s boss John Ward said he wants James to stay for the 2012-13 season.

Ward said: “I’ve offered Lloyd a contract for next season.

“He’s playing at right-back for Crawley and he’d played there a number of times for Southampton, too.

“In that respect, Lloyd offers Colchester United a variation.

“I like him as a midfielder and he’s only 24, so he’s still a young man.

“I’d like him around this football club next year if he wishes to stay.”

See Friday's Gazette for more on this story and all of the latest Colchester United news, including a full preview of the U's game against Sheffield Wednesday.