Tony Humes has warned Colchester United’s senior players they may face a battle to win a place in his starting line-up.

The U’s youngsters have impressed over recent games and have helped transform them into one of the form teams in League One.

Skipper Magnus Okuonghae returns from suspension after this weekend’s trip to play Preston North End, while striker Jabo Ibehre is training again after injury.

Marcus Bean and David Wright are also hoping for first-team recalls but boss Humes insists they must earn their place in his team, like anyone else.

Humes said: “The players are playing for their places all the time - that’s how it’s going to be.

“It’s a competitive environment, both going into a match situation or vying for your place in training.

“While players are performing well with experienced players out of the team, the younger ones have to make sure they play well enough to keep their place.

“At the same time, the older ones have to work hard enough to get back in the squad.

“It’s a case of looking at style of play and the players who are in there at the minute.

“They fit into how we’re trying to play and they’ve got the places, at this moment in time.

“It’s the same for everyone - players have got to earn their place in the team and maintain their form to stay there.”

For a three-page preview of Colchester's game with Preston, see Friday's Daily Gazette.