Tony Humes has revealed Colchester United’s new captain could be one of his summer signings.

The U’s manager is on the lookout for a new skipper, following the summer departures of Magnus Okuonghae and David Fox.

Humes is seeking both an experienced centre-half and central midfielder in time for the new League One season.

And there is a distinct possibility that whomever comes in will lead Colchester into battle in the 2015-16 campaign.

Humes will consider the identity of his new captain in the next six weeks, with his squad starting pre-season training this morning.

He said: “The captaincy is an area that we will look at.

“We’re looking for an experienced defender and central midfield player and that will come into our thoughts.”

Colchester have made two new signings so far, drafting in full-backs Richard Brindley and Matthew Briggs.

And Humes says he is close to bringing in a centre-half, to reinforce his defensive options further.

The U’s need to bolster their central defence, following Okuonghae’s departure and loanee Bongani Khumalo’s exit.

Humes said: “The priority was always to get the defensive area sorted.

“It’s important that we look solid in that respect, going into the new season.

“We’re getting closer and we feel that we’re nearly there with that.

“It’s still one area that we have to finalise but I’m hopeful we’ll be able to get something done in the next week or so.”

Colchester’s players return to full training today, with some unfamiliar faces likely to feature among their squad.

Humes has confirmed he is ready to hand an opportunity to trialists to prove their worth, in the build-up to the new season.

The U’s first pre-season friendly is at Ryman League division one north side Heybridge Swifts, on July 11.

Humes said: “We have a couple of trialists coming in from the start of pre-season.

“They’ll be in for the testing like the rest of the squad and it will be a good gauge.

“They left their clubs at the end of last season and it’s about getting the right opportunities and players applying themselves right.

“Whether they are trialists or contracted players, they’ll get an opportunity.”

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