MICHAEL Smith, recruited on loan from Charlton last Friday, did not have to wait long to make his Colchester United debut – just 34 minutes.

Tall striker Smith made quite an impression, during Saturday’s 2-1 home defeat at the hands of Crewe.

However, the ex-Darlington front-man was disappointed to squander a great chance to score in the second half, when blasting over from George Porter’s delivery.

“I was surprised to get on so quick,” admitted 20-year-old Smith.

“I was told that I would come on around the 60-minute mark. But I felt very good to get on that early.

“We are all very frustrated because of all the chances we had. I had a good chance, and we felt we should have come away with at least a point.

“I’m annoyed to miss my chance, so I’m glad that there is a game on Tuesday for me to put it right,” added Smith, with reference to the U’s visit to Coventry tomorrow.