Frankie Kent relished the opportunity to make his full senior debut, in yesterday’s 2-1 defeat at Bristol City.

Centre-half Kent certainly didn’t look out of place, operating alongside Tom Eastman in the heart of Colchester United’s defence.

The 18-year-old looks a good prospect, having made his debut as a half-time substitute on the final day of last season at Walsall.

A second-half brace from City striker Aaron Wilbraham took the gloss off the occasion, after George Moncur had handed the U’s an early lead, but Kent can still be happy with his display at Ashton Gate.

And he wants more, in the future.

“Overall, it was a good performance,” said Kent.

“It was good playing alongside Tom (Eastman). I’ve played with him quite a lot in pre-season, and in training, day in, day out.

“He is easy to play with, and we get on really well.

“It was a good experience for me, playing against experienced strikers like (Sam) Baldock and (Aaron) Wilbraham.

“Now I will make sure that I am ready, whenever I’m needed again,” added Kent, who replaced the suspended Magnus Okuonghae in the starting line-up.