Defender Pat Baldwin has revealed that Colchester United’s players are hungrier than ever for success this season.

U’s boss Paul Lambert has made a number of changes to his squad this season, as he bids to lift the club back into the second tier of English football.

The likes of Magnus Okuonghae, Lee Beevers, David Fox and Ben Williams have all arrived at the Weston Homes Community Stadium, with all of Colchester’s new boys keen to make an impression in Coca-Cola League One.

Baldwin, 26, has had plenty of experience of playing in that division during his career – and in the second tier.

The long-serving U’s defender – who penned a three-year contract to stay at the club this summer – has been impressed by the attitude of Colchester’s new signings so far.

He believes that was a key reason behind last weekend’s stunning 7-1 win at Norwich City and feels that has contributed to a positive atmosphere within the squad.

Baldwin told the Gazette: “There are a lot of hungry players in the dressing room this year.

“Every single one of them is hungry for success.

“When you’re playing well, that spreads around the changing room.”

Colchester turn their attentions to knock-out competition tonight when Leyton Orient provide the opposition, in the Carling Cup.

The tie sees former U’s manager Geraint Williams return to the Weston Homes Community Stadium with his Orient side, for the first round clash.

Baldwin worked under Williams throughout the majority of his time at Colchester and is pleased to see him getting results at Brisbane Road.

However, he also insisted that there will be no room for sentiment tonight, as the two clubs meet in the first round clash.

“George (Geraint) was at Colchester from when I started at the club,” said Baldwin.

“He is a fantastic coach and a fantastic man and it’ll be good to see him.

“It’s good to see that he’s doing well.

“But I’m a professional player and I want to win every single game I play and we’ll go into tonight’s game nice and positive.”