Colchester United will now set their sights on bolstering their attacking options after wrapping up the signing of Tom Eastman.

The Colchester-born centre-back became the second defender to sign for the U’s this week, following his free transfer switch from Ipswich Town.

The 19-year-old rejected the chance to stay at Portman Road, in favour of signing a two-year deal at the Weston Homes Community Stadium.

Eastman’s arrival follows hot on the heels of left-back Michael Rose, who yesterday completed his switch from Swindon Town.

Having strengthened his defence with two new signings, U’s boss Ward will now up his efforts to recruit more attacking players.

Ward said: “I have to look at forward and wide players and that’s the next priority.

“It might be that we go into July and look at loan options, like we did last season with David Mooney.

“But the ground work will go in to strengthen the squad in those areas.”

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