Colchester United chairman Robbie Cowling has given boss John Ward the green light to sign a striker on loan.

The U’s have been left short of firepower after Steven Gillespie suffered a hamstring injury in their 4-2 win over Notts County, last Saturday.

Colchester are still assessing the full extent of Gillespie’s injury.

However, his potential absence would leave them with Kayode Odejayi as their only fit recognised striker.

And the U’s attacking options will be reduced yet further next week when young winger Michail Antonio returns to Championship side Reading, following the completion of his successful three-month loan spell.

Ward said: “I’ve spoken to my chairman about it and he’s given me the go ahead to do something, should I wish.

“But it has to be the right signing and Ian Henderson showed against Notts County that he is capable of playing in that kind of position, as is Ashley Vincent.

“So, if we can’t do it then we have players that will help us to cope with it.

“But Michail goes back to Reading after our game at Tranmere on Saturday and that will leave us a little bit lighter.

“The next couple of days or so will be crucial in assessing the extent of Steven’s injury and whether we need to do something or not.”

See Tuesday's Gazette for more on this story and all of the latest Colchester United news.