DANNY Cowley believes Colchester United now have more leadership within their new-look squad as he prepares to name his new captain.

The U’s are looking for a new skipper heading into the 2024-25 campaign, following Connor Hall’s departure to League Two rivals Port Vale, earlier this month.

Colchester have brought in eight new signings so far this summer, with the likes of Lyle Taylor, Jack Payne and Alex Woodyard all having worn the armband at various times in their respective careers, for previous clubs.

READ MORE: Lyle Taylor wants to be 'main man' after joining Colchester

And U’s boss Cowley has hinted that more new signings are set to follow before the transfer window closes, as he looks to build a squad capable of challenging in the top half of the division.

Cowley said: “In terms of leadership, someone wears the armband but if you want to be part of a good team, you need seven or eight leaders.

“We have a lot more leadership in the group already.

“We still have some work to do, in terms of recruitment where we would like to keep improving the team.

(Image: MIKE EGERTON/PA WIRE)

“We’re at a good place and one and nine are always the hardest positions to recruit for and we’ve done really well there.

“We’ve done our business at the back end of the pitch and the front end of the pitch.

“We probably need to do a little bit more in the middle.

“We want competition for places – that drives the standards.”

All eight of Colchester’s signings so far this season have been permanent arrivals.

READ MORE: Braintree to visit Oldham Athletic in National League opener

It is in stark contrast to last summer, when the U’s brought in five loan players, including Owen Goodman, Nico Lawrence and Joe Taylor.

“We’ve signed boys that are totally focused and totally committed to this wonderful football club and this project,” added Cowley.

“That’s what we see.

“It’s not to say that we won’t use any loans and sometimes, it can help when you get to a stage with your squad and you just need the cherry on top maybe.”

Colchester play their first pre-season friendly of the summer on Saturday when they travel to play Maldon and Tiptree at Park Drive, kick-off 3pm.