Steele began his career at Millwall, where he was handed a three-month pro contract having shown excellent form for the under-19 team.
[2] Steele played for the Colchester United reserves in their final game against Gillingham at the end of the 2001–02 season, and took part in a further game organised by manager Steve Whitton to take a further look at him.
[3] He signed for Colchester on a non-contract basis after impressing while on trial at the club, having played in all the U's pre-season friendlies and making a solid impression on Whitton.
[4] After making eight league appearances for Colchester, the former Millwall player had failed to hold down a regular first team place and had his contract cancelled by mutual consent.
[5] He had only made one substitute appearance for the U's since he had been sent off after 15 minutes in a draw with Barnsley in October 2002.