JUNIOR Tchamadeu admits joining Championship club Stoke City was an ‘opportunity he couldn’t turn down’ after leaving Colchester United.

The 19-year-old defender left the U’s on deadline day to join the Potters on a four-year deal, for an undisclosed fee.

Tchamadeu made nearly 100 league and cup appearances for Colchester after making his senior debut for the club in December, 2020.

Tchamadeu told the U’s website: “I want to say a massive thank-you to the fans, the club, the staff and players and all the academy staff.

Gazette:

“All of you have played a big part in making this happen, obviously if it wasn’t for you, I wouldn’t be in the position I am in now.

“Coming through as a young boy, all I wanted was to do well for the club and hopefully progress into the higher divisions.

“That opportunity has come and it was one that I couldn’t turn down, for me and my family.”

Tchamadeu, who is set to be at the JobServe Community Stadium this weekend for Colchester's game with Tranmere with no Stoke fixture due to the international break, admits the speculation surrounding his Colchester future has made it mentally tough for him, over recent months.

Gazette: Junior Tchamadeu

The talented wing-back had been linked with a move away from the JobServe Community Stadium for a number of weeks, prior to eventually leaving them last week.

“It’s been difficult for me mentally to be honest,” added Tchamadeu.

“I’m still young so there’s a lot of learning to do. Sometimes, these things take a toll on you in terms of the way you perform and the way you react to things.

“As I said, there’s a lot of learning for me and again, the club have been great with me in the way they’ve supported me throughout this period.

“It's the first time I’ve been in this situation, it’s important that I use what I’ve learnt to deal with it better if I’m in this position again.

“Thanks again to everyone at the club.”