IT is often in the most testing of circumstances that true character emerges.

In sport, it is easier for team members to shine when they are collectively performing well; not so easy when not.

Although Colchester United’s 2008-09 season has thankfully not ended in relegation, for many supporters this campaign has arguably been just as disappointing.

So whoever emerges as the U’s Player of the Year will have no doubt earned their title.

Last year’s winner Johnnie Jackson will be hoping to scoop the award for a second successive season.

But having suffered an injury-hit campaign, the versatile utility man may find it hard to retain his title, this time around.

There are a number of candidates queuing up to wrestle the crown away from the former Spurs man.

Midfielder Dean Hammond has worn the captain’s armband for the majority of the season for the U’s.

And with the exception of winger Mark Yeates, the former Brighton and Hove Albion man has clocked up more appearances than any other Colchester player.

It is testament to Hammond’s consistency that he has been a regular under both current U’s manager Paul Lambert and his predecessor, Geraint Williams.

Yeates will no doubt provide a challenge to Hammond’s bid though.

The Irishman has also been practically a permanent fixture under both Lambert and Williams.

He has also proved his versatility this season, serving roles on both flanks and in central attacking positions.

Yeates is still Colchester’s leading goalscorer with three games to go, proving his worth to the team.

And some of his set-piece efforts this season have been simply stunning, particularly his free-kick against Leeds United at Elland Road.

Fellow midfielders Kem Izzet and David Perkins also fall into the bracket of being consistent performers for Colchester throughout the season.

While Izzet has shone in this, his eighth full season for the U’s, hard-working Perkins settled quickly to life in north Essex and has chipped in with some important goals.

In attack, Clive Platt has been robbed of the opportunity of forming a regular strike partnership with any of his team-mates, mainly because of injury.

But the lofty former MK Dons striker has nevertheless led the line well, chipping in with ten goals and providing countless chances for others.

The vast majority of Platt’s goals have come away from home, emphasising the importance of his role as a target man.

There has been an improvement in the way Colchester have defended this season, following the fragility of their back four last season.

Pat Baldwin has thrived on the responsibility handed to him by boss Lambert.

And although his season has been interrupted by injuries, fellow centre-back Paul Reid has looked solid since arriving from Barnsley last summer.

Or perhaps your vote will go to enterprising young full-back, Marc Tierney.

Tierney only joined Colchester last November, initially on loan, but has quickly become a favourite among fans and team-mates alike.

His no-nonsense style and passion have endeared him to the U’s supporters and he has made a favourable impression in the short space of time he has been with the U’s.

To vote for your favourite player, send the name of your choice, along with your own name and a contact telephone number, to gazette-news.co.uk/sport You can also write to Colchester United c/o the Media Department, Colchester United FC, Layer Road, Colchester, Essex, CO2 7JJ or email them at editor@colchesterunited.net Closing date for votes is 12pm on Monday (April 21).

Meanwhile, to vote for your Young Player of the Year, visit the U’s fanzine site, www.colchesterunited.com