Magnus sees U's heading up (From Gazette)

Magnus sees U's heading up

10:23am Wednesday 8th July 2009

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The U’s are on the up!

New boy Magnus Okuonghae is confident Colchester United can emulate the likes of Peterborough United and MK Dons and launch a genuine promotion challenge.

Okuonghae believes Colchester are one of the most progressive clubs around.

And the talented defender – who signed from Dagenham and Redbridge last week – feels the U’s are more than capable of securing a top-six place in Coca-Cola League One next season.

Okuonghae told the Gazette: “The club itself seems like it is going in the right direction.

“We have a good young manager and you can see that with the overall ambition the club has, it resembles clubs on the up, like Peterborough and MK Dons.

“I’m loving being at Colchester.

“I can’t wait to play some games – the quality of the squad looks very good.

“There’s a good team spirit in the squad and everyone works hard in training.”

Okuonghae had been linked with a number of clubs over the summer, prior to joining the U’s.

The 23-year-old was said to have attracted attention from the likes of Charlton Athletic, along with several Coca-Cola Championship clubs.

However, Okuonghae said that after talking to boss Paul Lambert and being shown around the club, his mind was made up.

“As a professional, I want to play as high as I can,” said the former Rushden and Diamonds defender.

“It was flattering to be linked to clubs like Charlton Athletic.

“But it was all about making the right decision for me and that was Colchester United.

“When I spoke to the manager, he was very sincere.

“He looks you in the eye and tells you what he wants you to achieve and the club to achieve.

“My first goal is to be in the starting XI.

“And once that’s the case, I want to cement my place in the team.”

l Colchester are closing in on the signing of Carlisle United goalkeeper Ben Williams.

The U’s have agreed an undisclosed fee with the Cumbrians for the former Manchester United trainee.

Williams now looks set to wrap up a move to the Weston Homes Community Stadium, providing he can agree personal terms and pass a medical. The signing of Williams would end Colchester’s search for a new goalkeeper, following last week’s departure of Dean Gerken to Bristol City.

The U’s original move for Williams ended in failure after a potential swap deal involving striker Scott Vernon broke down.

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