COLCHESTER United could face former loanee Tom Williams on Saturday after the left-back signed for League One strugglers Walsall today.

The 30-year-old – who played nine games on loan at the U’s over a three month spell prior to Christmas – was released by Bristol City at the start of the New Year.

He spent the last month recovering from a groin injury and although Colchester have since sold left-back Marc Tierney, summer signing Ben Coker has come to the fore and Conor Powell has been signed from Irish side Bohemians.

Williams has now signed for Walsall – who are level on points with basement side Bristol Rovers – and could make his Saddlers debut tomorrow night in a home game against Dagenham & Redbridge. The Midlands side then travel to Colchester on Saturday.

He said: “Hopefully I’ll bring a bit of experience to the team. I don’t have a relegation on my CV at the minute and don’t intend to add one here.

“I know a few of the lads already, so that will help me settle in quickly and get on with the task of helping us get as many points as we can from these remaining games.

“I spoke to the manager (Dean Smith) over the weekend and I fit into the mould he’s looking for, so hopefully we can work well together. It’s a challenge I’m looking forward to.

“My only aim is to help Walsall stay up.”

Meanwhile, Colchester’s teenage midfielder Jordan Sanderson has joined Essex neighbours Chelmsford City on ‘work experience’. The Clarets, who had Coker on loan earlier this season, are currently pushing for promotion from the Blue Square South.

Sanderson was one of three second year academy players to be awarded professional contracts at the club last week – striker Craig Arnott and defender Bradley Hamilton the other two.

Chelmsford boss Glenn Pennyfather said: “Colchester appreciated how well Ben Coker was looked after when he was with us and it’s great to retain those sort of contacts as deals like this can be of benefit to both Colchester United, us and the player.”

– Full match preview of Colchester United’s trip to Notts County in tomorrow’s EADT.