COLCHESTER United midfielder Anthony Wordsworth is set to sign a new two-and-a-half contract at the club this afternoon.

The 22-year-old left-footer – who has scored 19 goals in 92 appearances for the U’s since progressing through the youth team ranks – was due to see his previous deal expire in the summer.

It has been a busy day for the Essex club who have also extended striker David Mooney’s loan until the end of the season and signed Irish Under-21 left-sided player Conor Powell.

Reacting to Wordsworth’s new deal, Ward said: “Anthony got into double figures last season and has been the subject of much attention.

“He is a young lad, he has come through the ranks and I absolutely delighted he has decided to stay.

“We have been talking about a team for the town, so it’s an excellent situation for us to help psuh his career on. If we can help with taht I would be delighted.

“He has become an integral part of the team in the last 18 months and I am looking forward to working with him further.”

After a quiet first half of the season by his high standards, Wordsworth has returned to form recently by scoring a goal in the last two games.

– For all the latest following a busy day at Colchester United, see tomorrow’s EADT.