Swansea striker Casey Thomas has joined League One side Colchester United in a bid to gain valuable first-team experience.
Thomas, who has made two appearances for the Swans but is yet to feature this season, has joined Colchester on an emergency loan until the new year and is in line to make his debut at Tranmere on Saturday.
The Wales U21 international told Swansea's official website: "The manager wants me to go and gain some Football League experience and I'm more than happy to do that.
"It's important I try and get some Football League games under my belt at my age.
"I've had spells on loan at Newport and Port Talbot, so this is the next step for me.
"I can't wait to go there and hopefully play some first-team games. Watching the likes of Jazz (Richards) and Joe (Allen) progress as youngsters has really spurred me on. It shows what can be achieved as a local youngster coming through the ranks at Swansea.
"I feel more comfortable and confident as a person and a player this season.
"I really don't mind where I play because in the modern game you have to be flexible and versatile.
"I'm looking forward to helping Colchester as much as I can. The manager has told me it is a good club with a good manager who has a lot of experience.
"I'm sure I can learn a lot there and the loan spell can only help me develop."