Kem Izzet believes new signings hold the key to Colchester United winning promotion in his testimonial season.

Boss Aidy Boothroyd is busy making his plans for next season, with Carlisle United defender Richard Keogh the latest player to be linked with Colchester.

Izzet is ready to embark on his tenth year with the U’s.

The experienced midfielder knows what it takes to win promotion, having achieved the feat with the U’s in 2006.

The 29-year-old is confident Colchester can launch a similarly strong challenge, next time around.

And Izzet feels Boothroyd will be able to successfully blend the club's current players with new faces in the coming weeks.

Izzet told the Gazette: “I’m sure there are players who will fit in with the system and the type of lads we are and we’ll crack on.

“It’s going to be a special season for me but hopefully for everyone else, too."

For more on this story and a full review of Colchester United's 2009-10 season, see today's Gazette.