Colchester United have made a number of their players officially available for loan moves.

U’s boss Aidy Boothroyd is keen to trim the size of his squad.

And he has sent out a circular to Football League and non-league clubs listing those players who he feels are in need of match practice.

Striker Jamie Guy has already moved to Coca-Cola League Two side Port Vale on loan, while midfielder David Perkins last week joined Chesterfield.

And Scott Vernon, Alan Maybury, Matt Lockwood, Sam Corcoran and Russell Malton have been told they can also make moves away from the Weston Homes Community Stadium.

Of the players named on the circular, only Vernon and Guy have tasted league action under Boothroyd this season, both as substitutes.

The Colchester manager has made no secret of the fact that he feels his squad size is too big.

He wants to reduce numbers but has stressed that every member of his playing staff is valued.

Boothroyd said: “There’s too many in the squad.

“I like to run with a squad of 24.

“I will be straight with players and I don’t want to keep anyone here that doesn’t want to be.

“But it won’t be a case of ostracising them.

“Over a period of time, competition for places will add to us and we’ll be grateful for that in five or six months time.

“Everyone here is a valued player and I don’t believe in outcasting people and sending them to Antarctica.

“The important thing is that everyone is valued.

“I will be honest with them. They might not always like what I say but I will try to help them.

“You have to be honest with players and my door is always open for them.”

l A Colchester reserve side will play Blue Square Premier club Grays Athletic this afternoon.

The U’s will take on Julian Dicks’ side at the Weston Homes Community Stadium, kick-off 1pm.

Craig Rocastle, who is on trial with Colchester, will be looking to impress in the friendly match.