Former Ipswich Town midfielder Anthony Wordsworth has returned to Colchester United to become a coach in their academy.

The 35-year-old made close to 200 appearances for the Essex side after coming through their ranks and has now been appointed Senior Academy Individual Coach at Florence Park.

Wordsworth will give players individual coaching and mentorship from U15 to U21 level to help maximise their potential.

 

 

He will continue playing for Isthmian League North side Maldon and Tiptree, having joined them this summer as a player-coach. 

U's academy manager James McFarlane said: "The knowledge, experience and club connection Anthony brings will be invaluable for our young academy players. Having access to a coach who has lived their current journey at Colchester United will help us develop the future first team members to support the club’s success on the pitch."

In total, he played 20 times and scored two goals during his spell at Portman Road, having signed from the U's for £100,000 in January 2013. 

Wordsworth went on to have spells at Southend United, AFC Wimbledon, Barnet, Cheshunt, Irish club Waterford, Enfield Town and Chelmsford City.