Louis Dunne signs for the Club

The 22-year-old midfielder began his career with current Sky Bet League Two side Colchester United.

Having joined Colchester’s academy at the age of eight, Louis made his debut for the U’s during the 2015/16 season.

During a 3-3 draw with Wigan Athletic in March 2016, the midfielder was introduced as a second-half substitute and during the following month, he was awarded a starting spot against Burton Albion.

Whilst those were Louis’ only two league appearances for United, the following season he featured in all three cup competitions that Colchester were competing in.

At the beginning of the following season, Dunne made a handful of appearances for Vanarama National League South side Concord Rangers during a one-month loan.

Another loan would follow in January 2020, with the son of former Colchester player and manager Joe Dunne joining Southern League Premier Division South outfit Farnborough.

In the summer of 2020, Louis left the U’s and returned to Farnborough for the 2020/21 campaign.

Speaking on the 22-year-old midfielder’s signing, Chelmsford City boss Robbie Simpson said: “I’ve known about Louis for a long time actually because his dad was a coach at Cambridge United and I used to speak to him regularly.

“He used to keep me updated on how his son Louis was doing and he was actually tipped for really great things at Colchester.

“I think Colchester have obviously gone through a bit of a tough period and I was really surprised to see him released this time last year. He played a few games for the first team and did really well.

“Last year he wanted to get some games, so signed for Farnborough, he wanted to play week in, week out in non-league and build his career back up again.

“I think that we have to try and prove that Colchester have made a mistake.

“He’s local to us, he knows a few of the boys already and he’s got undoubted quality with a football.

“He just needs to play games week in, week out now and really kick on. He’s definitely got the ability to get back into the Football League and time is on his side in terms of his age as well.

“He’s a really great signing for us and I’m really, really looking forward to seeing him in our midfield.”

Talking to ClaretsTV, Dunne said: “It’s really exciting, there are a lot of younger boys that are playing and there are also a few experienced heads who know the game really well – people like El and Spills.

“If we can get that right mix that the Manager, Robbie, has said, I think we’re really excited about this season.”

The full interview with Louis will follow on ClaretsTV shortly.

Welcome to the Club, Louis!