Versatile Terry keen to establish himself at Colchester

Frankie Terry made his Colchester debut in the EFL Trophy in October 2023

Colchester United's Frankie Terry hopes versatility will lead to more opportunities following his first League Two start for the club.

The nephew of former England defenders John Terry and Paul Konchesky was given his chance against Accrington last Saturday after being recalled from a loan spell at Braintree Town.

Having started his career in the centre of defence, Terry has been increasingly used as a left-back - Konchesky's former role.

"When I first started playing left-back a couple of years ago, we went through a few little bits on positioning and stuff like that, and it really helped," the 20-year-old told BBC Essex Sport.

"Even now, playing here, he gave me some tips when he watched me play left-back a couple of weeks ago.

"I think it's a good thing for me to be able to play left-back and centre-back; that's two different positions I can potentially play in [for Colchester]. Even when I was out on loan, I played left-back and right-back for Braintree; it's good to be versatile these days."

Terry used to feel a bit of pressure because of his famous connections as he tried to establish himself.

"Both my uncles and my dad have helped me along the way so far, and any time I need anything, they're always there for me. [But] I've got to here by myself and just take each game as it goes really."

Following time on loan with Chelmsford City, Terry played two EFL Trophy games for Colchester last season and was a second-half substitute in their FA Cup defeat by Shrewsbury Town.

He then spent time at Aveley before being loaned to Braintree last summer, scoring once in 20 appearances for the National League club before his recall by U's boss Danny Cowley.

"It was unexpected to be recalled from Braintree. I've enjoyed my time there, but to come back and get my first league start, I'm buzzing," Terry said.

"To play with [the likes of] Teddy Bishop, Lyle Taylor, Jack Payne helps you so much to settle into the game; I really enjoyed it.

"The gaffer plays a lot of young players, and if you're good enough, you're old enough."

Terry believes that loans with non-league clubs can provide invaluable experience.

"Especially as a young defender, to get out and play men's football helps so much when you're starting to break through into the league," he added.

"There is quite a big difference, and in League Two, whether they're in their prime or coming back down, there are some unbelievable players."

Colchester, who are 17th in the table, are away to Bromley on Saturday.