COLCHESTER United’s summer signings will be on show when they get their pre-season friendly programme underway today.

The U’s make the short trip to play Maldon and Tiptree at Park Drive (kick-off 3pm), with their eight new boys all expected to play a part.

Alex Woodyard, Jack Payne, Rob Hunt, JK Gordon, Ben Goodliffe, Matt Macey, Harry Anderson and Lyle Taylor are all set to feature.

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Danny Cowley has brought in a number of players who have previously played under him at his former clubs.

A number of them, including Woodyard, Payne, Anderson and Taylor, have played in Essex before and the U’s head coach believes it is vital that they have players who have a connection with the county.

Cowley said: "You can see the strategy behind all of our signings, to sign boys who have had success in Essex before and maybe have roots in Essex.

"I think that's so important, as is some who we've worked with before.

(Image: RICHARD BLAXALL)

"We were a bit short of personality last year and we wanted to try and add a bit more character and personality to the group and a little bit more experience to help some of the younger players.

"I think we've got some brilliant young players here but it takes a village to develop one young player so to have the right support around them on and off the pitch is really important."

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Colchester will aim to give each of their players 45 minutes of game time against their Pitching In Isthmian League division north hosts Maldon.

They will take on a Jammers side now managed by U’s transition coach Dave Huzzey, who took over in the role at the end of last season.