TOM Eastman has signed a new two-and-a-half deal to stay at Colchester United.

Former Ipswich Town defender Eastman was delighted to put pen to paper again, and so guarantee his long-term future with the U’s.

The 21-year-old arrived at Colchester in the summer of 2011, after rejecting a new short-term six-month contract with Ipswich. His initial deal was a two-year package.

“It’s something that we had been talking about for a few weeks,” enthused Eastman.

“It’s a good deal for me, and I’m glad to sign this deal to keep me here a bit longer.

“I’m enjoying playing football at Colchester.

“When I was at Ipswich, and I didn’t have long left on my contract, nothing really got sorted out, and I ended up getting some more security at Colchester.

“Now I can push on play some more games,” added Eastman,