Matt Heath has joined Colchester on loan from Leeds United.

The 26-year-old centre back made his professional debut with Leicester in the Premier League but his descent down the divisions was faster than his former club's and he was struggling to get a game at League One outfit Leeds.

Heath has only made one appearance in a Whites shirt since Gary McAllister took over as boss and has subsequently moved to Layer Road in search of first-team football.

He had arrived at Elland Road during the 2006/7 season on a short-term deal from Coventry, joining permanently at the start of the current campaign.

The current deal with the U's expires on April 12th although can be extended until the end of the season.

Reda Maher / Eurosport