FREDDIE Sears is already enjoying a new lease of life at Colchester United.

The ex-West Ham attacker has fitted comfortably into his role behind the lone striker during pre-season, contributing four goals.

“Freddie’s playing happy football,” said Ward.

“I’m learning how I like to play him and learning what we want to do with him.

“Certainly, give him the ball in the top half of the field and he’s a threat. He has good pace over the first five yards, puts defenders on the back foot and is getting his goals as well.

“I think all players are confidence players. We all like to feel comfortable and Freddie is in a happy place.

“As a manager, I try not to complicate his football, or anyone else’s.”

Sears enjoyed his loan stint with the U’s last season, even though he only started five games. But now the 22-year-old is set to be a regular in the starting line-up.

“When Freddie first came here on loan, I didn’t use him all the time,” explained Ward.

“That was more down to me than him, because I had Kay (Odejayi) and Gilly (Steven Gillespie). But they’ve since moved on.

“When I brought him in again, I said – ‘I want you to play.’ – We’ve got a good player.”