CRAIG Eastmond has parted company with Colchester United.

The midfielder has today had his contract cancelled by mutual consent.

The 24-year-old, who has found his first-team opportunities limited this season, is now free to sign elsewhere, with his departure having been finalised before the end of the transfer window.

U’s boss Tony Humes said: “After discussions, it was felt it would be best for Craig to look elsewhere for first-team football and we wish him all the best for the future.”

Eastmond first arrived on loan from Arsenal, in September 2012.

A head injury led to him returning to the Gunners but the midfielder completed a permanent move in the summer of 2013.

In total, he made 68 appearances for the U’s, scoring seven goals.