ELLIOTT Hewitt feels he improved as a player during his short stay with Colchester United.

The right-back, who played his last game for the club in Saturday’s 2-1 defeat at Port Vale, was yesterday recalled by parent club Ipswich Town.

U’s boss Tony Humes had indicated he wanted to keep the Welsh Under-21 international at the Weston Homes Community Stadium.

But Ipswich called him back and the defender may now feature in tonight’s Championship match at home to Wolves.

Hewitt is still determined to force his way back into boss Mick McCarthy’s plans at Portman Road.

However, he appreciates the value of his time with the U’s, playing regularly in League One.

“I feel like I developed in the short time I was with Colchester,” said the 20-year-old.

“I worked under good staff there and played with good players."

For the full story and more U's news, including an interview with celebrity fan Steve Lamacq, see Tuesday's Gazette.