Sam Walker has the potential to get even better this season, according to Ademola Bankole.

But Colchester United’s long-serving goalkeeper coach still expects Walker to have plenty of competition for his spot, despite the recent departure of Mark Cousins.

Bankole was delighted with Walker’s consistency last season, which helped land him two Colchester United Supporters Association Player of the Year awards.

Walker, 22, played every minute of Colchester’s 2013-14 campaign in League One, earning rave reviews along the way.

And as the U’s prepare to return to full pre-season training at Florence Park today, Bankole is looking forward to linking up again with the talented shot-stopper.

Bankole said: “Sam did very well last year and I think he can do even better for us, this season.

“The only thing I think that can stop that from happening is injury.

“Sam can do anything he wants in the game."

For more on this story and all of the latest Colchester United news, including an update on their hunt for new players, see Monday's Daily Gazette.