Freddie Ladapo did not enjoy the consistent run in the team he needed to prove himself at Colchester United, admits boss Joe Dunne.

Ladapo has left the U's to join Skrill Premier side Kidderminster Harriers and made his debut for his new team in an FA Cup tie at Sunderland.

The 20-year old was regarded as a bright prospect by many but managed only six substitute appearances for the U's first team, during his time at the Weston Homes Community Stadium.

Dunne said: “The one thing about potential is that you’ve got to be given an opportunity.

“Freddie’s never really had that opportunity.

“He’s had a few games but the quality of competition that he faces in the likes of Clinton Morrison, Jabo Ibehre and Freddie Sears means he’s never really had that consistent run that maybe one or two other players might have had.

“At some stage, I’ve got to make a decision based on a young player’s career.

“Potential is nothing without opportunity and his opportunities had been limited here so he needs to take that opportunity somewhere else.

“I spoke to him and he understood that - he feels motivated to go so it’s an opportunity for him.

“He has to forge a career for himself.

“At the same time last year, I made some decisions on some of the other younger players in the same bracket.

“Macauley Bonne has come through, scored league goals and taken his opportunity, so all of these things play a factor in your decision making."

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