Macauley Bonne earned praise from coach John McGreal after the striker’s brace helped Colchester United’s under-21s to a 2-0 win over Nottingham Forest.

Bonne struck twice at the Weston Homes Community Stadium to seal the in-form U’s youngsters another win, in Professional Development League Two.

U’s under-21 coach McGreal said: “Macca’s all-round play was very good, going back into the number nine role.

“He scored a couple of goals and he was a constant thorn in their side.

“It was a great finish by Macca for our opening goal.

“We’ve watched it back a couple of times on the video already, with the build-up play and the set back from Louis (Dunne).

“It was a great finish from Macca and he’s done it through all of his younger years and into the first team and even when he drops back into the under-21s.”