COLCHESTER United have boosted their attacking options with the signature of striker Michael Folivi.

The 22-year-old pacy forward has been on the lookout for a new club since being released by Watford, in June.

And after spending time on trial with the U's, he has now put pen to paper on a deal until the end of the season, at the JobServe Community Stadium.

Colchester head coach Steve Ball said: "It's a great signing for the club.

"Mike's been with us a few weeks now.

"He's got great ability on the ball; he plays as a nine and just in behind as well and he gives us a different dynamic up top, which is really exciting.

"In the climate that we've had with Covid, we've had a few out of contract lads who have come in and it's a really difficult time for players.

"Luckily, we've managed to get Mike in and have a really good look at him, which is really good because sometimes players come in from the cold a little bit.

"But he's a great lad who's been with us for a few weeks now and will definitely add to the group."

U's assistant manager Hayden Mullins will know all about Folivi and his abilities, having worked with him during their time together at Watford.

Folivi had been with the Hornets since he was ten years old and was a prolific scorer as he emerged through the youth ranks, at Vicarage Road.

He made his Premier League debut for Watford against Stoke City in the 2016-17 campaign.

Folivi went on to have loan spells in League One with Coventry City and Boreham Wood, for whom his goal helping the National League club into the play-off final at Wembley.

Folivi has also enjoyed two loan spells at AFC Wimbledon.

He helped the Dons maintain their League One status while on a season-long loan at the South-West London club in the 2018/19 season, scoring 11 times and making a key contribution.

And he returned to AFC Wimbledon on another season-long loan last season, making a further 13 appearances in all competitions but his stay was cut short in January.