Brad McCarthy is set to join Colchester United this summer, with club owner Darragh MacAnthony confident the striker will finally hit his stride after a rocky two‑year spell at Peterborough United. The 24‑year‑old forward, who struggled to find consistency in the Midlands, is expected to add firepower to a side sitting 12th in League Two with 66 points from 46 games.

Why is Brad’s move significant for Colchester?

Colchester have scored 62 goals this season while conceding 49, a +13 goal difference that hints at attacking potential but also defensive frailties. Brad’s proven knack for finding the net in lower‑league football could tip the balance, especially as the club recently enjoyed a 4‑1 victory over Cheltenham on May 2, 2026.

How did Brad’s time at Peterborough shape his outlook?

Brad joined Peterborough United in July 2024 and endured a period marked by limited starts and a series of injuries. Over two seasons he managed just nine league appearances, failing to score a single goal. The former academy product described his stint as “a learning curve that tested my mental strength.” Those hardships, according to MacAnthony, have forged a resilience that could serve Colchester well during the demanding second half of the campaign.

What does the future hold for Colchester with Brad on board?

If Brad can replicate the form that saw him net 15 times in the National League before his Peterborough move, Colchester’s recent form – a 2‑game winning run amid a 2W‑0D‑3L run – could improve dramatically. The club’s next fixture is against league leaders Bromley, a test that will reveal whether the new signing can deliver against top opposition. With the squad aiming to close the 21‑point gap, every goal will matter, and Brad’s arrival adds a fresh dimension to the attack.

Colchester United remain 12th in League Two, 66 points from 46 games, with a recent form of WLLWW. Their goal tally sits at 62 scored and 49 conceded, leaving them +13 overall. The team’s last result was a convincing 4‑1 win over Cheltenham on May 2, 2026, and they are currently on a two‑game winning streak. Brad’s signing could be the catalyst that turns those numbers into a genuine promotion push.