FRANK Nouble has today left Colchester United and joined their League Two rivals Leyton Orient on loan until the end of the season.

The experienced forward has found himself out of the U's starting line-up of late and has linked up with the O's.

Nouble signed a two-year deal with Colchester last summer, following his departure from League One side Plymouth Argyle.

He featured 21 times for the U's in the opening months of the season, more often than not in the number nine role.

However, the former West Ham United youngster then suffered a knee injury which kept him out for nearly two months.

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Nouble has featured three times as a substitute for Colchester over recent weeks but has now swapped the U's for the O's.

He told the Leyton Orient website: β€œSpeaking to the manager Kenny Jackett, he was a big draw.

β€œFor me to get the opportunity now is something I’m looking forward to.

"It’s a fresh start, and I can’t wait to get to work.

β€œI’m experienced and I’ll bring that, but I’m here to help the team.

"I want to show my power and pace from the get go, show it to the fans, and help my new team-mates as much as possible.”

Colchester visit Leyton Orient on Saturday and it is unclear whether or not Nouble will be available to face his parent club, in that match.

O's manager Kenny Jackett told the club's website: β€œI like Frank both as a forward and in a wide area.

"He plays either side very well, and is adaptable across the front line.

β€œHe has a great attitude, and with his experience he can hold the ball up and complement the strikers we already have, bringing them into play.”