Ben Coker’s promising early pre-season form has made a big impression on Colchester United manager John Ward.

The attacking left-back was the only U’s outfield player to complete 90 minutes in their 2-1 friendly defeat against West Ham United.

Having been a regular for the U’s in the first half of last season, Coker failed to start a single match for the club in 2012.

The 23-year-old was given instructions to beef up during the summer and has returned for the new season in excellent shape, according to boss Ward.

Ward said: “Ben’s come back very fit and very strong and he’s put a bit of bulk on.

“He was a little bit light last year and we talked to him in the summer about working on that.

“He’s come back stronger and fitter and he’s in good shape.

“That 90 minutes against West Ham will stand him in good stead, as well as everything else he’s done over the last two weeks.

“We’re very pleased with what we’ve seen from him.”

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