Colchester United rejected “good offers” on transfer deadline day to keep hold of attacking pair Samson Tovide and Owura Edwards.
Manager Danny Cowley described the decision as a major boost, insisting that retaining two of his brightest players represents a “win-win” situation for the club’s League Two campaign.
Cowley Delighted to Keep His Forwards
Tovide and Edwards had been strongly linked with moves away this summer, with interest reported from higher divisions. But chairman Robbie Cowling opted against cashing in, despite attractive bids arriving late in the window. The U’s boss admitted he had expected departures but is thrilled that both men remain at the JobServe Community Stadium.
“We’re thankful to Robbie, because he did have some good offers on deadline day that he could have taken but as always, he does the right thing by the club,” Cowley said. “We anticipated both Samson Tovide and Owura Edwards would go but for whatever reason, that didn’t happen and of course, we’re delighted about that.”
The manager also highlighted the influence of youth, with seven players aged 21 or under starting in the midweek clash at Wycombe. He believes keeping senior young talents like Tovide and Edwards provides the perfect balance for a squad developing under testing circumstances.
A Challenging Window at Colchester
The transfer window was shaped by uncertainty over a potential takeover and the constraints of a reduced playing budget. Cowley admitted the staff had to prepare for two different scenarios, with sales anticipated but fewer players leaving than originally expected. Injuries to summer arrivals Will Goodwin and Ben Perry complicated recruitment further, restricting options in key positions.
Despite the difficulties, Cowley praised the collaborative approach of his backroom team, with assistant Nicky Cowley, recruitment staff and even players contributing to scouting efforts. The manager explained that the long-term absence of Perry, signed from Nottingham Forest, left a gap in midfield that the club could not easily fill.
While he admitted some frustration at not securing every target, Cowley stressed that the commitment to youth development remains central to Colchester’s strategy. Academy graduates such as Ronnie Harvey and Milton Oni have already been highlighted as players capable of stepping up to senior level.
Writer’s View
Keeping Tovide and Edwards could prove decisive for Colchester’s season. Both attackers bring pace, creativity and goals, qualities that are hard to replace in League Two. Rejecting firm offers underlines Robbie Cowling’s commitment to stability at a time of ownership uncertainty and a restricted budget.
Injuries to Goodwin and Perry may have hampered squad building, but with Cowley’s track record of nurturing young players, United look well placed to blend potential with experience. The manager’s relief at retaining his star men was clear, and their presence could help turn narrow games into much-needed victories as the season unfolds.
