Lambert Continues Squad Trim

Colchester manager Paul Lambert has continued to trim down the U's playing squad by releasing young duo James Hammond and Fabian Batchelor.

In the last week Matt Heath, to read the article, click here, and Jamie Guy, to read the article, click here, have been allowed to leave on loan. While full-back Matt Lockwood saw an agreement concluded to extend his loan at Barnet, to read the article, click here.

Right-back Hammond and winger-cum-striker Batchelor both signed professional deals at the Weston Homes Community Stadium last summer after progressing through the YTS. However, neither has been able to feature regularly in a U's shirt.

Football Operations Manager Gary Karsa told the club's official website: 'Unfortunately for both Fabian and James, the options available to them here are limited and were looking to be that way for a considerable length of time.

'Given the size of the squad and the immediate and longer term plans for the football club, it is in their interests to be given a chance to find another club, where their options will be better.'

The club are keen to help the rookie pair find new clubs before the summer transfer window opens.

He added: 'They can now go to other clubs - something that we will do everything we can to facilitate - and spend time training and playing competitive matches.'

Vital Colchester would like to wish James and Fabian the best of luck for their future.

So are the U's right to let them leave? Or would you have liked to see them get more of a chance?

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