THE ins and outs at Colchester United have continued this week, with the much-needed boost of Johnnie Jackson's arrival from Tottenham. Jackson impressed during an initial loan spell at Layer Road towards the end of the 2002-03 season, and has since gone on to play in the Championship during loan stints at Coventry, Watford and Derby, in addition to a few outings in the Premiership at White Hart Lane.

By Carl Marston

THE ins and outs at Colchester United have continued this week, with the much-needed boost of Johnnie Jackson's arrival from Tottenham. Jackson impressed during an initial loan spell at Layer Road towards the end of the 2002-03 season, and has since gone on to play in the Championship during loan stints at Coventry, Watford and Derby, in addition to a few outings in the Premiership at White Hart Lane.

The 23-year-old operated as a left-back during his eight league appearances for the U's three years ago, but is more comfortable in a midfield role, either in the centre or on the left. Jackson could therefore prove a useful replacement for fellow midfielder Neil Danns, who signed for Birmingham City in an initial £500,000 move earlier in the week. That deal could be increased to £850,000, depending on appearances.

Phil Parkinson was in the early stages of his successful managerial reign at Colchester when Jackson first arrived, although it looks likely that the former Tottenham man will be playing under a different manager in the Championship this term - Parkinson resigned last week, and is poised to become the new boss at Hull City. U's chief executive Marie Partner and assistant manager Geraint Williams put the finishing touches to the Jackson deal.