JOEL Thompson says he is excited to 'take the jump' and join Colchester United on a short-term contract following his departure from Nottingham Forest.

The 19-year-old Northern Irishman has linked up with the U's after agreeing to the cancellation of his contract at the City Ground prior to the transfer window closing, last Friday.

Thompson, who did not make a senior appearance during his time at the Premier League club, is looking to impress at new club Colchester.

 

Thompson told cu-fc.com: “I was at Forest for two years and I wasn’t getting game time.

"I came down here last week and had a good chat with the Gaffer, and he told me what his plans were – I was excited by it so I decided to take the jump and move to Colchester.

“I’m here to play men’s football, I want to do as much as I can in football and this is my next step. Hopefully the Gaffer will give me that chance.

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"I can play lots of different positions, I love getting on the ball and hopefully I can help the team to win games."

Thompson, who is a Northern Ireland under-19 international, joined Forest from Northern Irish club Crusaders, in the summer of 2022.

He links up at Colchester with his former Forest team-mates Aaron Donnelly and Jamie McDonnell, who are on loan at the U's from the City Ground.

 

Thompson was also a Forest team-mate of Colchester striker, Lyle Taylor.

He is a defensive midfielder but is also equally capable at centre-half.

Forest's Head of Academy, Chris McGuane, told the club’s website: "On behalf of everyone at Nottingham Forest I would like to say thank you and wish Joel all the very best with his future career.

"Joel is a fantastic person who has conducted himself superbly during his time here and we have thoroughly enjoyed having him with us since moving across from Northern Ireland."

Thompson becomes Colchester's 15th signing of the summer.