Eastman Crawley loan cut short

Tom Eastman: Defender has been recalled from his loan at Crawley due to defensive issues at Colchester

Colchester United have recalled defender Tom Eastman from his loan spell at League Two leaders Crawley Town.

Eastman initially joined Crawley in September and only had his loan extended by a further month last week.

However, due to a defensive crisis at his parent club, the 19-year-old has been summoned back to the Weston Homes Community Stadium ahead of Saturday's game against Sheffield Wednesday.

Crawley boss Steve Evans told the club's official website: "Tom has had to go back to Colchester.

"They are likely to have a few players missing for their game against Sheffield Wednesday on Saturday and Tom is expected to be involved.

"As usual with someone like John Ward the dealings we had were conducted extremely professionally and we wish Tom all the best back at Colchester.

"The clubs agreed that Tom could stay for another month only last week so there is the chance that we could see him again at Crawley Town in the future."

Eastman, who joined Colchester in the summer from Ipswich Town, had started six games in League Two during his time with Crawley.