Byron Lawrence will improve his game by working with Colchester United's senior players, after the youngster was called up to the first-team squad.

That is the view of U's boss Tony Humes, who has called up the former Ipswich Town midfielder for his first game in charge at Walsall tomorrow.

Lawrence joined Colchester earlier this week, following a successful trial period with the under-21s.

The 18-year-old, who made his debut for Town at the age of 16, has travelled with the U's squad for their League One game at the Bescot Stadium.

Humes is a big fan of Lawrence but wants him to learn from the players around him.

He said: “Like any young player, Byron has very good ability.

“He needs to carry on learning the game and he needs to work on the defensive side of things.

“But he’s a good footballer and he’s been brought up the right way at Ipswich and the way we want to play.

“He will start getting to know the lads a bit better and their strengths and weaknesses and improve his game."

For all of the latest Colchester United news, see the Daily Gazette.