Hamilton can force his way into U's first team (From Gazette)

Hamilton can force his way into U's first team

9:19am Monday 13th February 2012 in Colchester Utd By Jonathan Waldron

Bradley Hamilton has the potential to force his way into Colchester United’s first team in the future, according to boss John Ward.

The 19-year-old defender was awarded a professional contract with Colchester a year ago.

And Hamilton, who is yet to make a senior appearance for the U’s but has been a regular for their reserves this season, has impressed enough to earn himself a new deal at the club.

Colchester have made no secret of the fact that they will be placing greater emphasis on the progression of their young players, in the coming years.

And U’s boss Ward believes the likes of Hamilton and fellow youngster Jordan Sanderson are more than capable of making the step up to the senior game.

Ward said: “The likes of Bradley Hamilton and Jordan Sanderson are as close as anyone to getting into the first-team set-up.

“Jordan was on the bench for the last game of last season.

“Had the Football League had the sense to leave the seven substitutes rule alone, then people like Brad and Jordan would be far closer.

“They’ve both travelled around with the team and they’ve both been on trips with us.

“Over a period of time, they’ll become first-team professional footballers."

See Monday's Gazette for more on this story and all of the latest Colchester United news.