Colchester United boss Tony Humes believes he has signed a “natural goalscorer” after landing Jack Marriott on loan.

The Ipswich Town forward, who had recently been on loan at Conference Premier side Woking, has joined the U’s until the end of the season.

Marriott’s switch to Colchester followed an offer from Town boss Mick McCarthy, in the aftermath of Freddie Sears’ switch to Portman Road last week.

The 20-year-old, who has been prolific for Town’s under-21 side, will challenge the likes of Rhys Healey and Macauley Bonne for a place in Colchester’s attack.

And Humes is confident he has signed a goalscorer in Marriott, who has also had loan spells at Gillingham and Carlisle United.

Humes said: “Jack’s scored goals at every level and he’s a striker who works hard and who’ll suit our style.

“He give us a different option and he’s an addition to the strikers that we already have.

“Jack’s been playing in the Conference for Woking, so he’s had regular football and he’s ready to go.

“He’s also had experience of playing for other Football League clubs.

“Jack’s a young player who’s a natural goalscorer.”

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