Tony Humes insists there has been no interest in defensive lynchpin Kaspars Gorkss in this month’s transfer window.

But the Colchester United manager says he has put plans in place, should the Latvia international quit the Weston Homes Community Stadium.

Gorkss, 33, who penned another short-term deal with the U’s earlier this month, has been in impressive form for Colchester having made nine appearances since arriving last December.

Colchester are desperate to keep the former QPR and Reading player, who was outstanding in their vital 2-0 victory over Leyton Orient.

However, the U’s have recently signed defensive duo Matthew Briggs and Alex Wynter, who can both play at centre-back.

And boss Humes says that contingency plans are in place, should they lose Gorkss in the coming weeks.

Humes said: “It gives us cover if anything happened with Kaspars.

“That’s very much in the back of our minds.

“Nothing has happened with Kaspars as yet and there’s been no interest.

“Kaspars is playing from week to week and performing to the best of his ability.

“Long may that continue but we have to have that in mind, should something happen with Kaspars.”

Humes believes the likes of Gorkss can act as a “role model” for Colchester’s youngsters.

He said: “With the likes of Kaspars, David (Fox) and now Chris (Porter), we feel we have the right personalities in the club to help our young players.

“That applies to off the field as well as on it - we have to make sure that these players fit in and show their professional side.

“Our young players have to learn how to do the right things at the right time and the experienced players we have are role models for them.”

For all of the latest Colchester United news, see the Daily Gazette.