Jason Dozzell has staked a late claim for a place in the Colchester United side this season.

The former England Youth and Under-21 international striker-cum-midfielder stepped off the treatment table on Tuesday night.

And he's gone straight into manager Steve Whitton's melting pot for a place in the U's line-up for Saturday's opening day League fixture at Swindon Town.

Currently enjoying his second full season at Layer Road, Dozzell turned in an impressive performance as the U's wrapped up their pre-season friendly programme.

The U's beat Richard Wilkins' Bury Town side at Ram Meadow 1-0 and Dozzell sparkled.

He had been sidelined for the previous two weeks after picking up an ankle injury in training.

Whitton is already 90 per cent certain of his squad for the Swindon match, but is determined to keep it under wraps.

He did, however, reveal yesterday (Wednesday): "Jason has staked a late claim for a spot in the starting line-up.

"Every pro at the club is in my plans, but Jason produced a very bright performance until we replaced him on the hour mark last night. A lot can still happen in training on Thursday and Friday, but I have my squad already mapped out in my head."

That squad is almost certain to be minus former Ipswich Town midfielder Adam Tanner who caught Whitton's eye with a fine display at Bury.

He capped by netting the all-important second half winner from the penalty spot and is still hopeful of signing a deal with the U's.

Whitton said: "I neither wish to build up nor play down Adam's chances of joining us.

"He looked what he was last night, a First Division player and a class above most of the rest. But he still has a long way to go on the fitness front and I hope he continues to impress."

Midfielder Gavin Johnson also played an hour of last night's match.

Meanwhile, former U's star striker Mark Sale, who is set to marry his partner Paula later this year, resumed training with Rushden and Diamonds this week.

Sale, who has been confined to his sick bed with a form of cancer since last November, said today: "It's great to be back, but it's proving very hard work getting back into the swing of everyday work again."

Getting back to his best - Jason Dozzell

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