Colchester turned down 'multiple offers' for forward Tovide

Samson Tovide has started 50 league games for Colchester United

Colchester United rejected "multiple offers" for striker Samson Tovide during the January transfer window, according to head coach Danny Cowley.

The forward has scored 11 goals in 50 league starts for the U's which Cowley says has sparked interest from numerous clubs.

"We had multiple offers for Samson - we know we won't have him forever but also have a responsibility to make sure the move is right for the club but also for him as well," Cowley told the Colchester club website.

"I can't tell you the number of calls I took on Samson in particular in this window; pretty much all the Championship clubs phoned, a lot of the top of League One also (clubs in) Belgium, Portugal and Spain."

Tovide came through Colchester's academy and his current contract expires in the summer although the club hold an option for a further year.

"We know he's irreplaceable for us and I spoke to him late last night (Monday) when it looked like he would go but it wasn't quite right," said Cowley.

"He loves the club, loves the boys, loves the supporters and knows the team is set up for him to have success and plays to his strengths so he wasn't in a rush - he genuinely wants to finish what he's started and we're delighted he has stayed."

The 21-year-old has not played for Colchester since a goalless draw at Crewe on 20 December because of a hamstring injury.