Colchester United boss John Ward will run the rule over former Southend United forward Francis Laurent tonight.

The U's will take a look at the French attacker in their totesport.com combination fixture against Stevenage at Broadhall Way.

Laurent, 24, who left the Shrimpers at the end of last season, has had trials at npower Championship clubs but is currently a free agent after leaving Roots Hall.

Ben Williams, Kayode Odejayi and Paul Reid are also set to feature in the match.

For the full story, along with Marc Tierney's exclusive weekly column, see tomorrow's Gazette.