COLCHESTER United midfielder Joel Thompson has joined National League South side Aveley on loan.

The versatile 19-year-old, who signed for the U's from Premier League side Nottingham Forest in the summer, made his debut for the Millers in their 2-0 defeat at Hampton and Richmond, on Saturday.

Thompson, who can play in either defence or midfield, joined Forest when he was 16 after impressing for Northern Irish side Crusaders and spent two years at the City Ground club.

(Image: WWW.CU-FC.COM)

The Northern Ireland under-17 international linked up with the U's on a short-term contract in September, after agreeing to the cancellation of his contract at the City Ground prior to the transfer window closing.

He has been playing for the U's under-21 side in the Professional Development League over recent weeks, is now looking to make a positive impression on loan at the Millers.