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Colchester United forward Oscar Thorn pronounced himself "ready to make my mark" after being handed his league debut by manager Danny Cowley.

The 20-year-old was given his chance in their 1-1 draw at Chesterfield and provided the ball into the box for Jack Payne to give the U's an early lead.

Thorn's only previous appearance came as a substitute in the EFL Trophy and he was on loan at non-league Chelmsford City until being recalled recently because of injuries in the squad.

"It was a perfect start for me. I was only expecting to be on the bench and it came as a huge bonus (to start)," he told ���˿��� Essex Sport.

"I had to remind myself that this is what I've been working towards my whole life. The nerves were there but as soon I got on the pitch, I was ready."

Cowley responded to Saturday's home defeat by Cheltenham by also giving a first start to midfielder Jamie McDonnell, also 20.

"I am so proud of him. So many would love to be a professional footballer, but so few can do it and no-one can ever take that away from him," said Cowley.

"He's worked incredibly hard to get that opportunity and I thought it was a great assist and a great goal for Jack."

He added: "Jamie McDonnell on his debut as well. He's going to be some player, that kid. He was everywhere, with his energy, intensity, pitch coverage, the amount of tackles he won."

Thorn said his time at Chelmsford had been "so beneficial" and followed a loan spell at Bath City last term.

"I played right-back for Chelmsford which was an experience I loved," he added.

"It's always different playing men's football to Under-21s because something is on the line every game. I loved it but now I'm ready to make my mark here."