Sanchez Watt played his return from injury as Colchester United's under-21s played out a 0-0 draw with Sheffield United in their Professional Development League Two opener.
The former Arsenal youngster, who has been sidelined with tendonitis, completed 90 minutes against the Blades at their Redtooth Academy as Richard Hall's academy side started their campaign with a draw.
Watt hit the crossbar for the U's, for whom midfielder David Wright also featured in his comeback from an Achilles problem.
Byron Lawrence from Ipswich Town and Tottenham Hotspur defender Kane Vincent-Young also played.
Colchester under-21s' next league game is at Crystal Palace, next Tuesday.
For all of the latest Colchester United news, see Wednesday's Daily Gazette.
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