NEW Colchester United academy striker Makise Evans is targeting a first-team breakthrough this season after signing his first professional contract with the club.
The promising 18-year-old has linked up with the U’s under-21s, following his departure from League One side Stevenage at the end of last season.
Evans is currently Stevenage’s youngest-ever player, having made his debut for the Hertfordshire club at the age of just 16 as a late substitute in their League Two game at Mansfield Town in April, 2023.
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Evans told cu-fc.com: “I’m a striker who loves to run in behind, get on the end of things and finish in and around the box.
“One of my main targets this season is to push into the first team and make an appearance.”
Evans made five senior appearances for Stevenage and has had loan spells in National League South with St Albans City, Tonbridge and Hampton and Richmond Borough.
“The experience in non-league is very valuable. It’s a lot more physical, you’re playing against men, so you have to learn to use your body more and understand how to play the game properly,” added Evans.
Colchester United academy boss James McFarlane told cu-fc.com: “We are delighted to welcome Makise to the football club.
“He is a powerful centre forward and at 18 years old has already had good experiences with Stevenage and on loan at various clubs in the National League South.
“A huge benefit of running a Category 2 Academy is the Under 21s programme.
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“This gives boys more time to transition from youth football to senior football.
“Makise will benefit from this extra development time, and I know he will work as hard as possible to get an opportunity with our first team.
“We look forward to seeing his progress with us at Colchester United.”
