David Wright knows exactly what it takes to avoid relegation.

And the experienced midfielder is confident the future will be bright for Colchester United providing they avoid the drop, this weekend.

Wright was a influential member of the Crystal Palace side that retained their Championship status by the skin of their teeth, in the 2010-11 season.

After contributing to them staying in the second tier, he helped the Eagles’ youngsters flourish in the division the following season.

Colchester are hoping to emulate Palace and stay up, after finding themselves in a similarly precarious position to the south London club in this campaign.

Wright is sure they can achieve their objective at Carlisle United - and then go on and flourish in League One.

He said: “I remember going into the third from last game of the season at Crystal Palace with our status not secure.

“We had Leeds United at home and it was a must-win game.

“We beat them 2-1 and then went to Hull City and got a draw and that was it.

“It was very important for Crystal Palace to stay up and it’s a similar situation to the one that we find ourselves in at Colchester.

“The next year having stayed up, we really kicked on and went from strength to strength and I think the same can happen with us."

See Friday's Gazette for more on this story and all of the latest Colchester United news, including a full preview of their big game at Carlisle United tomorrow.