Chris Porter is the perfect role model for Colchester United’s young players.

That’s the view of U’s boss Tony Humes, who believes the experienced striker is having a positive influence on the club’s fledgling players.

Porter was left disappointed at Doncaster Rovers last weekend after missing an early penalty in Colchester’s 2-0 defeat.

However, the 31-year-old has made already made a big impact since joining them from League One rivals Sheffield United, last month.

Porter has scored three times for the U’s and Humes believes his presence is proving important within the squad.

Humes said: “Chris is a fantastic pro.

“He has come to us as an experienced player and is a great role model for the young players we have got.

“Certainly Macauley Bonne, if he takes things from Chris then he will be a better player.

“They are the type of experienced pro we want to bring in who will blend and help develop our young players.

“In the early part of Chris’ career he had a very good goal ratio.

“He hasn’t played as much in the last year or so with Sheffield United but he's a goalscorer.

“He is a centre forward who has played more than 400 games and his goal ratio is very good.

“We’re pleased with Chris and I think he’s enjoying himself here.

“There are a lot of young players around him and I think he wants to help them.”

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