Former Ipswich Town youngster Byron Lawrence has become new Colchester United manager Tony Humes’ first signing at the Weston Homes Community Stadium, agreeing a one-year deal.

Lawrence, 18, made his debut as a 16-year-old for the Blues in April 2012, in the away victory at Doncaster Rovers – in what proved to be his only Town appearance.

“He hasn’t progressed enough to get in the first team. He’s now at that age where if he’s not going to progress into the first team he’s got to go and get something else,” said manager Mick McCarthy recently.

Lawrence, who was under contract at Town until next June, has been on trial with the Essex club and played for the U’s under-21s team against Sheffield United last week and the 3-1 defeat at home to Nottingham Forest last night.

Humes told the Colchester website: “I think this is further evidence of how we’re trying to bring exciting young talent into the club.

“We want to generate footballers for the first team via our own academy, but we also have to be aware of other good young players that may be around, especially if we feel that they’re of a calibre that will make the first team.

“Byron has shown in his two performances for the U21s that there is a good player there and we’re pleased to have him on board.”