West Ham United have confirmed young midfielder George Moncur has joined League One side Colchester United on a two-year deal for an undisclosed fee.

The 21-year-old Moncur had been on loan with the U’s since pre-season and has made 21 appearances and scored three goals along the way.

But with Moncur – who made two appearances for West Ham’s first team – not likely to force his way into the reckoning at Upton Park, he has decided to opt for pastures new at the Weston Homes Community Stadium.

Speaking of his departure Moncur, the son of former Hammers midfielder John, told the club website whufc.com: “There is some sadness about leaving West Ham because I was there for a good few years and I had some great times there.

“My dad spent a few years there as well so I’ll miss it, but I’ve got a new challenge in front of me now.

“I have got to thank the people at West Ham, especially Nick Haycock and Ian Hendon who spent a lot of time with me and improved my game.”

Moncur, who joined the club as a teenager, featured for the Hammers first team in a League Cup tie against Crewe in December 2012 and had another outing in last season’s FA Cup third round clash at Nottingham Forest.