HE captained AFC Wimbledon and won the Players' Player of the Year award there.

But there will certainly not be any divided loyalties when Alex Woodyard returns to Plough Lane with his new club Colchester United, this weekend.

Woodyard played 123 times during his three-year spell at the Dons and relished his time there, before leaving last summer to join York City.

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The combative midfielder heads back to his former club for the first time since departing them, one of a number of former AFC Wimbledon players in the U’s squad.

Woodyard is in line to make his Colchester debut tomorrow and is keen to make a positive early impression.

Woodyard said: “There’s obviously quite a few connections with myself, Lyle, JK played there last year and I think there are also a few lads at Wimbledon who obviously played here, last year.

“It’s going to be tasty.

(Image: MIKE EGERTON/PA WIRE)

“I loved my time at Wimbledon and it’ll be good to go back there.

“But now I’m playing for Colchester so it’ll be good to get up and running with three points.”

Woodyard joined Colchester in early July, reuniting with Danny and Nicky Cowley for the fourth time in his professional career.

The 31-year-old signed a one-year deal with the U’s, after his contract at York City was cancelled by mutual consent.

Experienced Woodyard is looking to make an impact at his new club, after returning to the Football League.

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“I’m really excited for the season and helping on and off the field,” added Woodyard.

“Colchester have got some great young talent.

“It’ll be great to play games but I’ll also get that kick out of helping them and trying to help them to improve by giving them any advice they need.

“Anywhere I can help, on and off the field, I’m up for the challenge.”