Ex-Newcastle United midfielder Matt Longstaff is positive

The 23-year-old spent the first half of last season on loan at the U’s from Premier League club Newcastle United, before his spell at the JobServe Community Stadium was cruelly cut short.

Longstaff, who made ten appearances on loan at the U's, suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury in his knee after coming on as a substitute in Colchester’s 1-0 win at Gillingham, on Boxing Day.

It was the last time the midfielder played and he is now battling back to fitness as a free agent, after being released from his contract at Newcastle this summer.

READ MORE: Matty Etherington hoping to make U's home advantage count

Speaking to Sport Bible, he said: “I'm really motivated to get back.

“I want to be a top player.

"Things are going really well at the moment. I've been back out on the grass in these last two weeks.

"Hopefully, I'll be fully fit in January. The last couple of months especially have been really positive.

“I'm in a good frame of mind. If everything goes to plan, I'm hoping to be back in January or February time."

Longstaff was released by Newcastle this summer but despite his contract ending, he has been allowed to continue his rehabilitation at his former club.

He came through the Magpies’ academy and scored their winner on his Premier League debut against Manchester United in October, 2019.

Longstaff netted three further goals in a total of 20 appearances for Newcastle.

"The club have been unbelievable with me throughout," he added.

READ MORE: Tom Dallison embracing competition for places at Colchester

"They have allowed me to stay around the place to do all my rehab, which means I've got top physios looking after me every day.

“If I need extra help on the pitch, the staff will always be there.

"They'll often ask how I'm getting on mentally, as well, and still treat me like I'm one of their players. It just shows how good they are as human beings.

“They've all played the game and had injuries. They know what it's like."