Dion Sembie-Ferris is setting his sights on a first start for Colchester United.

The youngster has caught the eye with some impressive substitute appearances in recent weeks.

And he furthered his growing reputation with a goal for the U’s under-21s on Monday, in their 5-2 success against top-of-the-table Swansea.

Now Sembie-Ferris is hungry to make his full debut for the senior team - and determined to play his part in their quest for survival.

“Things are going well at the moment,” said the 18-year-old, who joined Colchester in 2013 and, in his first season, helped the club to a Youth Alliance South East League title and Youth Alliance Cup double.

“The gaffer is giving me a chance and I want to repay his faith, by showing my worth.

“I’m giving my all and trying my hardest to make an impact every time I come on.

“But while it’s nice to be given a few minutes here and there, I’d love to be given a chance from the start.

“That’s my next goal and I know that in terms of first-team football, I couldn’t wish to be at a better club.

“The whole place is geared towards giving youngsters a chance and the gaffer has shown so much confidence in myself and the likes of Tom Lapslie, Sammie Szmodics and Macauley Bonne.”

Peterborough-born Sembie-Ferris admits the U’s dressing room is a buoyant place, following Saturday’s stunning 3-2 victory against League One leaders Bristol City.

“Morale is very high,” said the winger, who was an unused substitute against the Robins.

“We always knew we had it in us to play like that and it was great to play that way in front of our own crowd.

“Everyone knows our home record isn’t the best but our fans have been so amazing and supportive.

“I’m 100 per cent sure we can avoid relegation and I know all the lads feel the same way.

“We all believe in our ability and what we can do and, from my point of view, it would be amazing to play a big part.”

Sembie-Ferris had more cause for celebration after playing and scoring for the U’s under-21s in Monday’s big win against Swansea.

The Swans had been on a 14-game unbeaten run prior to their trip to north Essex.

“It was incredible,” said Sembie-Ferris.

“The boys played really well and I was very pleased to score, because my other big aim is to become more clinical.

“One of the things the manager has said is that he wants his wingers to have an end product.

“That’s what I’m working towards and I want to be clinical and consistent in front of goal.

“I want to be the best player I can be, by working hard and continuing to improve.”

For all of the latest Colchester United news, including Sam Walker's exclusive column, see Thursday's Daily Gazette.