Ross and Gavin Johnson were drafted into Colchester United's squad for last night's (Tuesday's) pre-season friendly at Canvey Island.

The pair were sidelined when the U's started their build-up with a 4-0 triumph at Cornard United on Saturday.

But Andy Arnott, who started at Blackhouse Lane, was set to miss the match with a thigh strain.

Manager Steve Whitton said before the game he believed the showdown at Park Lane would provide a stronger test of his troops' resolve.

He said: "We're expecting a bit more of a challenge than at Cornard and we'll be up against a few familiar faces, so it will be interesting.

"The match on Saturday has whetted the lads' appetite. They worked very hard in training yesterday and everyone's looking forward to tonight.

"These games give me a great opportunity to look at some of the younger players and all the lads who are fit will feature at some stage."

The U's will see a slimmer version of striker Neil Gregory, their record signing who joined Canvey last season. He has shed 11 pounds during the close season. He will join new signings Mick Bodley and Steve Clark.

Lyn Atkins has joined the U's as commercial manager.

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