COLCHESTER United have snapped up promising young left-back Makhaya James on a two-year scholarship deal.

The talented 16-year-old has flourished as part of the Kinetic Academy for 14 to 19 year-olds and is the 58th player from the programme to sign for a professional club.

He gained experienced of playing men's football last season when playing for Southern Counties East League premier division side Glebe FC.

Now he is set to link up with Colchester's academy at Florence Park, as he looks to seize his chance at a professional club.

 

Head of Kinetic Academy Coaching Eddie Munnelly said: "Right from the get go on our Project United Tour in Bath we could see that Makhaya possessed the right character to pursue a career in football.

"A powerful left back who is strong in the tackle and has a willingness to get forward and serve balls into the box is something that most clubs would be looking for so it came as no surprise that he has already been snapped up.

"He had strong performances for Kinetic against Southampton, QPR & Bristol City along with experiencing men's football for Glebe FC whilst still only a Year 11 student at school.

"I wish Makhaya all the best, excited to see this young man grow and develop!"

 

The Kinetic Academy's mission is to support and help young people aged between 14 and 19 years old.

They do so through providing support and activities which develop their skills, capacity and capabilities, enabling them to participate in and integrate into society as independent, mature and responsible individuals.

Kinetic coach Adam Fleming said: "Makhaya is a lovely kid and so humble.

"He always leaves everything on the pitch whether it's training or a match.

"He's tenacious and has bags of energy to burn up and down that left flank.

"He was on the bench with me for Glebe's first team a number of times and managed to make his debut not too long ago.

"I'm buzzing he's put pen to paper, he deserves it and I'm glad I can say I worked with him for a season!"