Former Colchester United hero Mark Kinsella and his Charlton Athletic team-mates arrive at Layer Road tomorrow (Saturday) on the crest of a wave.

The Republic of Ireland midfielder, who moved to The Valley for £150,000 in September 1996, guided the Addicks to their most successful campaign for 47 years last term.

After gaining promotion alongside Ipswich Town - an achievement which made Kinsella the first skipper to lead them back into the top flight on two occasions - Charlton were a revelation in the Premiership.

Athletic - like Town - were roundly tipped for relegation, so finishing ninth and accumulating 52 points was a remarkable achievement.

Kinsella, Charlton's player-of-the-year in 1998 and 1999, has already made one playing return to his former stamping ground, not to mention numerous visits as a spectator.

He played in a pre-season friendly three years ago, just after the U's had secured their place in Division Two by beating Torquay in the play-off final at Wembley.

Charlton boss Alan Curbishley has already moved to bolster his talented young squad further this summer, most notably by securing the services of Jason Euell.

The striker, who has signed a five-year contract, became Charlton's most expensive signing when he agreed a £4.75 million switch from London rivals Wimbledon.

The Addicks already boast a mean-looking attack with Jonatan Johansson one of the most feared marksman in the Premiership.

The Finnish international, who joined from Glasgow Rangers for £3.25 million, finished the club's top scorer last season with 14 goals.

Assuming he features, the U's rearguard will also have to be at its best to contain Shaun Bartlett.

The South African arrived on loan halfway through last season and enjoyed an explosive debut, bagging two goals against champions-elect Manchester United.

Five further strikes followed before a £2 million deal was agreed to make his stay permanent.

Other players to watch out for include Dane Claus Jensen, who was on the verge of joining Ipswich before agreeing terms at The Valley, Mark Fish, John Robinson and Sasa Ilic.

Converted for the new archive on 19 November 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.