Thomas Pinault has been released by Colchester United.

Thomas Pinault

The 22-year-old French midfielder (above) is the second U's player to be shown the door, following on the heels of goalkeeper Richard McKinney's departure yesterday.

Pinault, like McKinney, has not been offered new terms on the conclusion of his current contract.

And, explaining his decision to let the enigmatic former AS Cannes player go, U's boss Phil Parkinson said: "Some decisions are hard to make.

"Thomas has been a good player for the club, but I need to freshen up that part of the team and I think he feels he's ready to move on."

Pinault is already reported to be interesting some clubs back in his native France.

Brought over to England as a teenager by former Layer Road boss Mick Wadsworth in July 1999, Pinault went on to make 157 League and cup appearances for the U's, scoring seven goals, in his four years with the club.

Published Thursday May 13, 2004

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