Top-scorer Payne eager to stay at Colchester

Colchester United top-scorer Jack Payne said he wants to stay with the League Two club next season. The 31-year-old midfielder agreed a two-year deal with the U's in the summer of 2024 following his release by Charlton Athletic. Payne has scored 12 goals in 37 appearances this season, including two hat-tricks, and is hopeful he will be offered a new contract.

"I'd rather be on fewer goals and a lot higher up the table, but I'm grateful for the amount I've got so far, and am just hoping to finish the season as strong as possible," he told BBC Essex. "I've loved my time here. The fans have been amazing to me, really took to me well, supported me massively last season and this season.

"I love the relationship I have with them, so long may it continue. I'm not going to shy away and be one of them who say, 'Oh, I don't know. ' Hopefully, I am here [next season].

" Colchester host Swindon Town on Friday evening (19:45 BST) with the U's 13th in the league table, and nine points outside the play-off places with five matches to go.