Colchester United’s new loan signing, Jeffrey Monakana, is looking to make a “big impact” at his new club, starting at Bradford City this afternoon.

Flying winger Monakana, who signed on a month’s loan from League One rivals Preston on Thursday morning, is set to make his U’s debut at Valley Parade today.

A product of Arsenal’s successful youth system, Monakana’s exciting style of play – running at defenders and shooting on sight – is a main reason for manager Joe Dunne’s decision to recruit the teenager, and so bolster his injury-ravaged squad.

Monakana himself is ready to perform, and to entertain.

“I like to make an impact by getting the ball and making things happen,” enthused Monakana.

“Hopefully, I can score goals and set up goals as well. There’s a big passing philosophy here.

“Playing on the right, or left, I don’t mind. I just like shooting, like scoring and I like running with the ball.

“I haven’t played down the middle before, but I wouldn’t mind that either!

“I wanted to come here, because I know the way Colchester play football, and I know it will be good for me. The gaffer wanted me here as well, and I think we can all gel as a team. It’s a close-knit dressing room.

“I’m a very direct type of player, and that should help the team’s style. I look forward to showing the fans what I am capable of here.

“I want to do something great, while I am here, and I’m sure results will turn. I think all the recent defeats have come because of the injuries,” added Monakana.

The 19-year-old is especially keen to link up again with fellow former Arsenal apprentices, Sanchez Watt and Craig Eastmond.

“People often forget this, but I’m only 19! So Craig and Sanchez are both a bit older than me,” continued Monakana.

“Sanchez was the main guy at Arsenal

“They are all good players, and I’m happy to be playing with them. They can make my game better.”

Manager Dunne was delighted to land his target on Thursday, especially with fellow wingers Sanchez Watt (quad), Gavin Massey (hamstring) and Drey Wright (sore calves) continuing to be dogged by injuries.

Watt is a definite non-starter for Bradford this afternoon, although it is hoped that Massey and Wright will be fit enough to feature at Valley Parade.

Dunne enthused: “Jeffrey is a player who I have always admired.

“When he’s played against us, he has always had an impact on the game. He’s got pace, dribbling skills – all those kind of things that I want from a player.

“He did well when he came on as a substitute against us. It was all we could manage to keep him at bay.

“He’s more direct and he goes for goal, which I think is something we have missed. He likes to cut inside and shoot.

“He’s my type of player!” added Dunne.

Enfield-born Monakana was on Arsenal’s books from the age of eight, and signed a four-year deal when he was only 14.

He was a regular for the under-18s, and the reserves, but never made a senior appearance for the Gunners and eventually moved to Preston in the summer of last year.

He rattled up 47 appearances for the Lilywhites last term, but injury has hampered his progress during the first month of this campaign – to date he has only made two substitute appearances.

Monakana confirmed: “I’ve been injured, and that has put me back a bit, feeling a little sluggish. I’ve been playing catch-up, but I’m fit now.”