Courtney Senior says he loves providing entertainment for Colchester United’s fans after shining in their victory over Port Vale.

The talented winger impressed in the U’s 2-0 triumph, scoring their opener and running the Valiants defence ragged with his skilful running and trickery.

Senior says he was determined to make an impact after being left out of Colchester’s starting line-up for their League Two opener at Notts County.

And the 21-year-old has revealed he was also spurred on by the support of the home crowd, at the JobServe Community Stadium.

Senior said: “Every time I step on the pitch, I like to entertain and make an impact.

“I like to play with a smile on my face and I think the fans were brilliant.

“They’re all supportive whether it’s at the games or on social media and I heard them after I did a few bits and bobs on the pitch.

“The crowd being behind me like that gets me going to do even more, so it’s really good for me.

“I didn’t start at Notts County but every time I do start, I try to make an impact and that’s what I did.

“When I’m not in the team, I just try harder in training and whatever I need to do (to be in the side), I’ll do.”

Senior is hoping for a big season, having established himself in John McGreal’s squad last season.

The former Brentford winger clocked up 19 appearances for Colchester last year but is keen for more, in this campaign.

“I’m trying to get as many games as possible,” said Senior, who has now scored five times for the U’s.

“I’m still quite young but I feel I can make that step back up.

“I got injured two years ago and was out for a year which was a big setback but I just want to kick on.

“I’m injury-free and pre-season has been really good.

“We were unbeaten in pre-season and got a lot of minutes under our belt.”

Colchester have taken four points from a possible six in League Two and Senior admits their results at the Community Stadium will be vital.

He said: “The home form wasn’t too bad last season but the year before, we were excellent here.

“If we can do that here this year, I think we’ll do really well.

“We got a point at Notts County which was a tough game to start with and we’ve got three points from our first home game, so it’s a great start to the season.

“We’re away to Mansfield next weekend so hopefully if we can get a point or even better three points, it will be a great start for us.

“I think this squad is one of the strongest we’ve had, since I’ve been here.

“We had the likes of Brandon Comley, Aaron Collins and Diaz Wright on the bench (against Port Vale) and I think it’s a strong squad, at the moment.”

Colchester now turn their attention to the Carabao Cup and a first-round trip to play League Two rivals Cheltenham Town, tomorrow night.

Senior added: “A good cup run always helps in the league.

“If we can get a good cup run going, the limelight will be on us to do that as well so it would be really good.”