COLCHESTER United loanee Gavin Massey has returned to Watford.

Massey was not in Saturday’s U’s squad, for the 1-1 home draw against promotion-chasing Sheffield Wednesday, because the winger was on the verge of being recalled by the Hornets.

U’s boss John Ward decided not to play him, for danger of the young attacker picking up an injury on the eve of his return to Vicarage Road.

Ward confirmed: “I could have played him in this game, but Watford are recalling him and it looks like Gavin may get involved in the Watford first team after this weekend.

“I didn’t want him to get anything that stopped him doing that.”

Massey made eight appearances over two loan spells with the U’s, four starts and four substitute outings.