Brendan Wiredu bids heartfelt goodbye to Colchester United fans

The 22-year-old midfielder has joined The Cods for a six-figure undisclosed fee and signed a three year contract with the League One side.

Wiredu made 75 appearances for the U's across his two spells with the club and was a popular figure among supporters.

The former Charlton Athletic youngster says the connection he built with the U's fans is one he will cherish forever.

Writing on social media, Wiredu said: “I’ve been struggling to find the words to say goodbye & thank you.

"I don’t think words can actually describe how grateful I am of @colu_official.

“A club that took me in, allowed me to be myself & gave me the opportunity to express myself on the pitch.

“The connection I built with you fans is one that could never be broken and one I’ll cherish forever.

“Thank you to all staff & players (former and present) for all the help and belief that you have given me.

“Colchester will always hold a fond place in my heart.”

Wiredu first joined Colchester on a loan from Charlton at the start of the 2019/20 season.

He then joined the U's on a permanent deal in early 2021, impressing with his combative performances in the centre of midfield.

Wiredu picked up runners-up spot in Colchester's Player of the Season and Young Player of the Season awards in 2021.

Meanwhile, Wiredu says he is excited about the prospect of playing in League One for Fleetwood.

He said he is looking forward to playing under former Celtic midfielder Scott Brown, who has just taken over at The Cods.

He told the Fleetwood website: “I’m excited and ready to get started here at Fleetwood; I want to get out there and show what I can bring to the table.

"The main draw was the fact the club wanted to get the deal done quickly as it showed me that they wanted me from the beginning.

“They showed everything that I wanted to see and the project that they showed to me is something that I want to get behind.

"I spoke to the gaffer [Scott Brown] and he told me about his plans and from what was said, it just made sense for me to come here as it lined up with what I want to grow into as a football player.

“The gaffer played in the exact same position as I do so I would be a fool not to go and pick his brains and get some tips from him – that was probably one of the biggest draws in me picking to come to Fleetwood.

"He spoke to me well, told me what he expected from me, and it all just lined up to what I want to do in my career now as I push forwards.”