‘Rio` Re-signs

Colchester`s Pat Baldwin is not known as Rio for nothing, although that nickname has not come about necessarily because the 24-year-old is one of the world`s best defenders.

It`s more likely that the former-Chelsea youngster, who has just singed a new contract, has a capacity for performing win-ups on his team-mates, just like Manchester United`s Ferdinand.

Pat follows the example of skipper Karl Duguid in committing his future to United, having signed a two-year deal. It will keep Baldwin in Essex until 2009, at the club where he has so far notched up 137 appearances.

As Baldwin – who is jokingly described as the most annoying member of the U`s squad by his fellow players – told BBC Radio Essex last week, “We’ve had so much success here and we can still achieve more. I’m settled in the area and am just looking forward to doing my best for Colchester. I’ve loved every minute of being here.”

Manager Geraint Williams hopes that his commitment will persuade more players to sign long-term on the dotted line. Speaking before Tuesday`s Plymouth clash, he said: “It was important to get Karl signed up – it took longer than I’d hoped but we got there.”

“Now Pat has followed suit, we’re talking to a number of other players to get them sorted as soon as we can.”