NEW Colchester United academy signing Kien Connolly highlighted their clear pathway for young players as one of the reasons behind his decision to join the club.

The 18-year-old striker has penned a one-year deal to be part of the U's under-21 squad in the Professional Development League, following a successful trial period in the final weeks of last season.

Connolly is hoping to follow in the footsteps of the likes of Samson Tovide and Bradley Ihionvien in progressing from Colchester's youth set-up and breaking into the club's first team.

READ MORE: Defender signs for non-league club after Colchester exit

Connolly told www.cu-fc.com: “You’ve seen it a lot with players like Junior (Tchamadeu), Jayden (Fevrier) and Jay (Mingi) that there is that trend within the club.”

Connolly was playing his football with Pitching In Isthmian League division north side Grays Athletic when he linked up with Colchester's academy on trial, in March.

The non-league side wished the teenage striker well, when he departed for the U's.

 

Grays said: 'After an approach for a football league club, Kien has decided to move on. We are all extremely proud and wish Kien all the best for the future! Thank you for all your efforts and performances!'

In addition to Grays, forward Connolly has also played for Concord Rangers and Barking Abbey.

It was through a connection between Abbey and Colchester transition coach Dave Huzzey that played its part in Connolly signing for the U's.

READ MORE: Son of former Colchester United striker signs for Braintree

He said: “Dave actually coached one of my former coaches at Barking Abbey.

"He then asked Dave to have a look at me and showed a lot of interest.”

Colchester will have a new-look under-21 squad next season, managed by Liam Bailey.

Donell Thomas, Harry Beadle, Gene Kennedy, Ronnie Nelson, Ted Collins, Ryan Lowe, T'Aizo Marcel-Dilaver, Kaan Bennett, Jet Dyer, Kennedy Mupomba, Byan Aman and Matt Yates were all released by the U's, at the end of last season.

Colchester have made offers to Harrison Chamberlain, Frankie Edwards, Max Jolliffe and Milton Oni while the club took up their options on Oscar Thorn and Frankie Terry and Oliver Godziemski, Kaleel Green, Archie Oliver and Hakeem Sandah are all under contract.