Southampton defender Nico Lawrence joins Colchester United

The highly-rated 19-year-old, who penned a new two-and-a-half year deal with Saints in January, spent the second half of last season on loan at Torquay United, playing in the National League alongside former U's duo Frank Nouble and Tom Lapslie.

Lawrence initially joined Southampton in February, 2022 from Kent Southern Counties league side Glebe FC.

READ MORE: What Ben Garner will be looking for from U's players at Spain training camp

Prior to that, he had been with the London-based Kinetic Academy and had spells with the Crystal Palace and Fulham academies.

My time @TUFC1899 has now come to an end and I just want to thank the staff, players and most importantly the fans for your moral support. I’m grateful for the opportunity I’ve been given I would like to wish you all the best next season.💛💙 pic.twitter.com/5p5hODUZxq

— Nico lawrence (@Nicolawrence73) May 2, 2023

Since joining Southampton last year, he has impressed for their B team and featured regularly in Premier League 2 matches and in the EFL Trophy prior to moving out on loan to Torquay, where he got his first taste of professional football.

READ MORE: Tributes paid to popular former U's academy coach

Lawrence was unable to keep the Gulls in the division.

#SaintsFC's young defender Nico Lawrence has joined @ColU_Official on a season-long loan:

— Southampton FC (@SouthamptonFC) June 26, 2023

Nevertheless, he impressed during his time with the Devon club, winning two Player of the Month awards as well as the club's Young Player of the Season award.