Joe Dunne has denied that Colchester United are close to signing Darren Ambrose on a permanent basis.

The former Newcastle United and Crystal Palace attacking midfielder is a free agent and has been training with the U’s.

Ambrose featured in Colchester’s recent friendlies against Ipswich and Dagenham & Redbridge.

But the 30-year-old is not yet fully match fit and boss Dunne says both parties are still weighing up their options.

Dunne said: “There are no plans with regards to Darren, at the moment.

“He’s an experienced pro and he has a good quality about him still.

“He’s come in and played for us in pre-season and I think it’s a case of both parties keeping their options open.”

For more on this story and all of the latest Colchester United news, see Thursday's Daily Gazette.