Alex Gilbey is expected to return to action for Colchester United in their pre-season friendly at Bishop's Stortford tonight.

The midfielder, who has been tipped to be the U's new captain this season, is set to feature at Woodside Park after recovering from a shin injury suffered in Colchester's friendly defeat against Ipswich Town, last Wednesday.

U's boss Joe Dunne wants to use the match to give some of his players more game time, with the new League One season ten days away.

Marcus Bean, Sanchez Watt, Josh Thompson, Macauley Bonne and Sammie Szmodics are also likely to play against the Conference South club.

But Dan Holman (ankle) and David Wright (Achilles) are not yet ready to return.

Dunne said: "We'll have some pros playing who need games.

"There'll be some who came on against Luton but we also have to make sure that they get the proper rest in."

For all of the latest Colchester United news, see the Daily Gazette.