Josh Thompson is hoping his permanent switch to Colchester United will help his career blossom.

The young defender has signed an 18-month contract with the U’s, after impressing during his loan spell from Portsmouth.

Thompson, 21, has already represented the likes of Celtic and Stockport County, along with a number of clubs on loan.

But now he has committed himself to Colchester until the end of the 2013-14 season, the lofty defender is keen to go from strength to strength and enjoy a flourishing professional career.

Thompson said: “I’m looking forward to being at a club for the longer term and making improvements to my game.

“I want to make Colchester my home and I think I can improve by being settled and that means consistency, both on and off the pitch."

See Monday's Daily Gazette for more on this story and all of the latest Colchester United news, including a mid-season review of the season.