Parkinson lands young Red Devil

The 21-year-old has made one first team appearance for The Red Devils this season when they went out of the Carling Cup at Division One side West Bromwich Albion.

The Republic of Ireland Under-21 international spent time on loan in the Second Division last term with Crewe Alexandra and he will have an opportunity to earn more senior experience at Layer Road.

His loan allows for Tierney to appear in the two-leg LDV Vans Trophy Southern Final tie against Essex rivals Southend United, as well as the FA Cup fifth round, should The U's get past Coventry City in the next week's fourth round replay.

The youngster's addition will be a boost to Parkinson's backline, with Andy Myers still injured and Gavin Johnson still not match fit.

Colchester will hope that Tierney's inclusion can take the club closer to the play-off places in Division Two, with The U's hosting in-form Tranmere Rovers at Layer Road on Saturday.