Ex-Colchester United loanee Abo Eisa has joined Grimsby Town

The 27-year-old, who spent time on loan with the U’s from Shrewsbury Town in the 2018-19 season, has linked up with the Mariners on a free transfer, having been released by Bradford City at the end of the season.

Eisa told the Grimsby Town website: “I’m delighted to be a Grimsby Town player and I’m excited about the project.

READ MORE: This is when U’s will discover their EFL Cup opponents

“Obviously, I know the gaffer and Doigy well, this will be the third time I’ve signed for them, and I know what I’m getting coming here.

“Now I can’t wait to get going and play in front of our amazing fans.”

📝 We are pleased to announce that forward Abo Eisa has signed a one-year deal with the Mariners.

🤝 Welcome to #GTFC, Abo! #GTFC

— Grimsby Town F.C. (@officialgtfc) June 14, 2023

Eisa has linked up with Grimsby boss Paul Hurst for the third time in his career, having previously played under the former Ipswich Town manager at both Shrewsbury and Scunthorpe United.

Hurst told the Grimsby website: “Abo is a player we know really well from signing him for Shrewsbury from non-league and also working with him again at Scunthorpe.

READ MORE: Former U’s loanee is released by Premier League club

“He’s an attacking player who likes to run with the ball and has the ability to beat defenders and take the team higher up the pitch.

“He can play wide, as a 10 or a second centre forward, so he will add to our options in the attacking areas. He’s also capable of scoring goals, including the occasional spectacular strike!

🗣 A message from our new signing, @AboEisaa7

(It was windier today than it looks) #GTFC pic.twitter.com/syz2rZdQ6f

— Grimsby Town F.C. (@officialgtfc) June 14, 2023

“It hasn’t quite worked out for him recently in terms of the amount of games he’s played – some of that is down to injuries but we feel that there is a player there and one that adds to our attacking threat which is an area we wanted to improve.

“I’m pleased to get him signed up and looking forward to working with him again.”

READ MORE: From Groves to Saka – how U’s spell paved the way for Roy Massey’s incredible career

Eisa played 14 times for Colchester while on loan from Shrewsbury under John McGreal, scoring twice.

The following campaign, the former Wealdstone youngster joined Scunthorpe United and spent two years there before joining Bradford in the summer of 2021.

Eisa was with the Bantams for two seasons and made 21 league and cup appearances for them, scoring twice.