Colchester United favourite Sam Szmodics has returned to Championship side Derby County on a season-long loan. The 30-year-old made 165 appearances for his home town club Colchester between 2013 and 2019, and spent the second half of last season with the Rams. He registered three goals and an assist for Derby and now returns to Pride Park for the 2026/27 campaign.
What happened?
Former Colchester United attacker Sam Szmodics has re-joined Championship side Derby County on a season-long loan from Ipswich Town. Szmodics told the Derby County website: "It feels great to be back finally – it's been a long time coming and I knew when I left last season that it's a place that I wanted to return to, so over the moon to finally get it done."
Why it matters for Colchester
Szmodics has once again linked up with head coach John Eustace, under whom he enjoyed his most prolific campaign. He registered 27 goals under Eustace at Blackburn Rovers, helping him clinch the 2023/24 Championship Golden Boot.
What comes next?
Colchester United are currently preparing for their next fixture, which is against Gillingham away on 2027-02-27. The U's are currently 6th in the table and will be looking to continue their strong form with a win against their opponents.
