Colchester United veteran David Wright is likely to be out for several weeks after picking up a thigh injury in training.
The 34-year-old, who has made three substitute appearances for Colchester so far this season, is facing a spell on the sidelines after suffering the setback at the end of last week.
U's boss Tony Humes said: "Unfortunately, David got injured in training and he could be out for quite a while.
"It's disappointing for him, because he's a great pro to have around the building and around the squad, with so many young players here.
"He gives a mature head in a youthful dressing room and it's disappointing for him more than anything.
"We'll assess it and see how it is but it looks like he'll be out for a few weeks.
"We'll miss him but we have Magnus (Okuonghae) back and David Fox added to the squad, so there's a little bit more experience in the squad now."
For all of the latest Colchester United news, see the Daily Gazette.
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