Colchester United full-back Matthew Briggs says his first taste of senior international football with Guyana has boosted him ahead of the new season.

Briggs was involved in the Golden Jaguars’ World Cup qualifiers last month, after opting to play for the country earlier this year.

The 24-year-old, who joined the U’s on a permanent basis last month, had previously played for England at under-16 to under-21 level.

But the former Millwall defender, who made his Guyana bow against Grenada last March, says he is glad he chose to represent the South American nation.

And Briggs, whose family are from Guyana, is hoping that there will be more opportunities for him to impress on the world stage in the coming months.

He said: “The international experience I’ve had has been good, especially being at senior level now.

“It’s been enjoyable, travelling around the world and playing in hot climates.

“It’s been a good experience and I relished it.

“It came at the end of the season but anyone would love to play international football, given the chance.

“I’m definitely hoping for further call-ups and when I’ve been away, I feel I’ve done well and given a good account of myself.

“Hopefully, it’s given me a good chance of being called up again.”

Briggs had never previously visited Guyana before, prior to being selected for the squad for friendlies against St Lucia and Grenada, in March.

After making his full international debut against Grenada, he was picked for the Golden Jaguars’ World Cup second-round qualifier last month along with former U’s midfielder Neil Danns.

But Briggs ended up missing both legs of the Golden Jaguars’ qualifier against St Vincent and the Grenadines, who won on away goals after the tie finished 6-6 on aggregate.

He did not receive his Guyanese passport in time for the first leg and missed the second game, because of a stomach upset.

Now Briggs is fully focused on returning to action with his new club Colchester, having signed a two-year deal with the League One club last month.

“I haven’t really had a break as I was away with Guyana for a few weeks,” added Briggs, who played 18 games on loan for the U’s last season.

“But it’s good to be back playing club football again.

“Pre-season training is hard but it’s nothing compared to a game so it’s good to pick up the game fitness.”

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