Thomas Pinault today appealed to Colchester United boss Steve Whitton for a chance to prove an explosive return to form.
The Frenchman is bidding for a recall to the first-team when the U's host Bristol City in Division Two tomorrow.
Pinault caught the eye after emerging from the bench in last weekend's Layer Road draw with Blackpool.
And he said: "I really want to be in the team tomorrow to prove to the manager that I'm back in form.
"I was happy with my contribution last weekend and also when I played for the reserves against Northampton on Wednesday.
"In a way, I was my own worst enemy earlier in the season because I set myself too high a standard.
"The manager warned me it would be difficult to keep up that level of performance and he was right. But I feel good again now and hope to be given a chance tomorrow."
Pinault is hoping to resume his midfield partnership with Kem Izzet, another player to help turn the course of last weekend's match after coming off the bench.
Whitton said: "Thomas' form earlier in the season was unbelievable. We always knew there was going to be a dip but hopefully now he can play a major role again until the end of the season."
The U's will be without Gavin Johnson, who aggravated an old hip injury during the Blackpool game. He also looks set to miss Tuesday's trip to Notts County.
Bobby Bowry returns to the squad after serving a one-match suspension.
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Published Friday, February 22, 2002
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