HAYDEN Mullins says his Colchester United side will head to Bradford City with plenty of confidence tonight following their recent performances.

The U’s return to League Two action following encouraging displays in the FA Cup and Papa John’s Trophy.

Colchester can draw level with their opponents on points with a win at Valley Parade.

And after only two defeats in their last eight games in all competitions, boss Mullins says his players are feeling upbeat.

Mullins said: “It’s a tough game away from home against Bradford.

“It’ll be a long day for us but we’ll go up there feeling positive.

“In our last away performance against Swindon, we started very well and fast and we’ll be looking to do that again.

“We have to use the positives from this game and take them into the league.

“There’s loads of confidence and loads of positives that we’ll take out of this against a very good side.

“We need to use that and really generate it.

“We’ve got some real bright sparks in the team and we really need to keep them going and nice and positive.”

Gazette:

Colchester will check on the fitness of winger Luke Hannant ahead of tonight’s game.

The former Cambridge United attacker missed the U’s FA Cup game against Wigan with a neck problem.

Mullins said: “He did something in training which ruled him out.

“We’ll have a look at Luke and see how he responds.

“We’ll get him sorted and see how he is for Wednesday.”

Frank Nouble, Ryan Clampin and Gene Kennedy (all knee) and Shamal George (ribs) are still sidelined.

But midfielder Brendan Wiredu is back after coming off the bench against Wigan following a knee injury and is set to travel.

“Brendan’s been back in training since last week,” said Mullins.

“We wanted to get him back on the pitch and try and get him up to speed.

“I’m sure we’ll need him at some point and it was good to see him back out there.”