No Pickle Over Starlet Gerken!

Vital Colchester users have put shot-stopper Dean Gerken, who is now coached by the man he has replaced in the U`s XI, Aden Davison, as their young player of the season, scooping 89% of the votes.

The 'keeper is also in the running for our new player of the season poll, on site now, and has been watched by the England set-up this year. The Dean Machine, along with Wolves` Matt Murray, is one of the most highly rated net-minding prospects outside of the Premiership.

Others on the poll included Greg Halford, the now Reading player, and young target man Jamie Guy. The sticker has made a large number of substitute appearances this season, impressing against Cardiff at home and recently when he came off the bench against Sunderland.

Hogan Ephraim, the skilful West Ham loanee, and defender John White were also in the poll, of which every candidate was a product of the United youth set-up.

Owner Robbie Cowling, after the success of countless young Colchester players in the game, has pledged to double the amount of money invested in youth development over the next few seasons.

Click here to join in the debate on the club forum.