COLCHESTER United have added eight new scholars to their under-18 squad ahead of the new season.

Owen Moore, James Sasere, Dwayne Campina Do Vale, Daniel Banjoko, Leo Makatta, Herbie Shaw, Ronnie Harvey and Olufela Abidekun will all be taking their next steps in football, with their places in Elliot Ward's squad confirmed ahead of the upcoming Professional Development League campaign.

The scholars are set to train full-time at Colchester's Florence Park training ground, with some moving away from home for the first time.

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Colchester United academy manager James McFarlane told the club's website: “First things first, well done to the lads for getting these contracts.

“Any young player that wants to get to this stage has had to work extremely hard and make numerous sacrifices along the way.

"They have shown the right attitude, application and talent to make this big step and I’m sure that everyone will join me in wishing them the best of luck.”