COLCHESTER United are to make signing a new goalkeeper their top priority before they host Rochdale, on Tuesday night.

The U's are looking to bring in a new shot-stopper, following Shamal George's red card in the 1-1 draw against Swindon Town, on Saturday.

George is set to serve a three-match ban for violent conduct, after being adjudged to have stamped on Swindon forward Josh Davison in an off-the-ball incident, in the League Two clash.

Teenage academy product Ted Collins came on following George's dismissal and performed well on his senior debut.

 

George says he plans to appeal the red card.

But if that fails, he will be suspended for their forthcoming games against Rochdale, Leyton Orient and Mansfield Town.

Dean Gerken has been struggling with a hip problem and was deemed not fit enough to make the bench against Swindon.

The U's are looking to bolster their keeper options and could bring in a new goalkeeper on an emergency loan outside of the transfer window if necessary, with George suspended and Gerken out injured and Collins (pictured below) not yet signed on professional terms.

Gazette:

Colchester interim assistant head coach Joe Dunne said: "I'd think we'd have to get one in, to help the group.

"Violent conduct is three games.

“It’s something we’re going to need to address, over the next couple of days, so we’ll see how that develops.

"Let's see what the next couple of days bring and we'll try and be active."

Collins was sent on for his senior debut for Colchester in place of Alan Judge in the 74th minute, after George had been dismissed.

It was a big moment for the U's youngster, who showed commendable bravery and agility in helping his depleted side keep Swindon out and eventually salvage a draw.

Dunne added: "Congratulations to the young man.

"His family will be very proud, we're very proud here and it's another young lad who's made his debut.

"May he enjoy it - he's earned it.

"A 19-year-old making his debut in that situation, to face that kind of Swindon side and the balls coming in the box.

"He was brave, as a young goalkeeper.

"I thought his pass that led to the corner was very good; it was a good free-kick against a very high line.

"He put it into exactly the position that you'd want it and he was brave, coming off his line."