Cambridge United v Colchester United: New recruit Brandon Comley is ready to do the ‘nitty-gritty’

Comley was one of five players to arrive on a hectic transfer deadline day yesterday, signing on loan from QPR until January.

The 21-year-old Londoner is all set to toughen up the U’s midfield, although there are more strings to his bow than just stopping the opposition.

“I would say I am more of a defensive midfielder, but I wouldn’t just say I am completely defensive-minded,” explained Comley.

“I do like to play football and I like to dribble sometimes, so I can do the other side as well. That’s the way I like to brand myself.

Brandon Comley, who signed for the U's on loan from QPR on transfer deadline day (Image: Archant)

“But when it comes down to the nitty-gritty, don’t worry, I can do that. I can win the ball back. I don’t mind getting my hands dirty, that’s for sure,” added Islington-born Comley.

It is unclear as to whether the ex-Carlisle and Grimsby loanee will go straight into the side, or the 18-man squad, for tomororw’s visit to Cambridge United, but he is glad to be given the chance to progress his career with the U’s.

“When my agent said Colchester were interested – and did I fancy it? - I said definitely. I didn’t need to think about it,” added Comley.

“It’s a perfect time to come in, after the previous weekend’s 5-1 win (over Forest Green Rovers), and the club was also very close to making the play-offs last season.”

Comley clocked up 33 league appearances for Grimsby in League Two last season, but his opportunities have been restricted to just three substitute outings for his parent club QPR.

Comley explained: “I’ve been playing under-23s, and training with the first team here and there.

“But it’s quite congested in the midfield at QPR at the minute, so chances are restricted for me. A lot of people that they have got, they have brought in. It’s not like they have come through the club, they are paying them big wages.

“The gaffer (Ian Holloway) has told me that he likes me, but it’s hard to break into the team.

“He said maybe you might not be the guy to take us to the Premier League just yet, so I’ve got to learn and try to push forward.

“I’m not sure yet, with regards whether I’m going to play straight away, or going to have to bide my time. Whatever it takes, if I have got to wait and break my way into the team, then I’ll definitely try to do that.”