Izzet now faces a battle to keep Colchester in the Championship

The 27-year-old has scored 17 goals in 241 league appearances for the Essex club since moving from Charlton in 2001, initially on loan.

He last signed a contract in March 2006 but the U's did not reveal the length of that contract - or the new deal.

"We have been talking for about three or four months now, and I am glad to get it done. I can now concentrate on my football," he told the club website.