COLCHESTER United are hoping that Harry Pell will soon be back to boost their League Two play-off bid.

The key midfielder has undoubtedly been missed by the U's, over recent weeks.

Pell has missed six games since suffering a hamstring injury in the opening minutes of their 3-0 win over Cheltenham Town on February 9, with John McGreal's side winning one, drawing two and losing three of those matches.

The 27-year-old has been an influential player since joining from League Two rivals Cheltenham Town, last summer.

And the statistics certainly back up Pell's impact.

He seems to be Colchester’s good luck charm, having spent 43 per cent of the games he’s played at the club in a winning position, as they strive for a top-seven finish.

Indeed, despite their mixed recent results, the overall numbers show that Colchester have been ahead for large periods of their campaign, so far.

Before their 3-0 defeat at Exeter City last weekend, the U's had spent a massive 21 hours 54 minutes winning throughout this season, equating to 38 per cent of the season.

That is nearly as much as League Two leaders Lincoln City, who had been in a winning position for 22 hours and ten minutes, prior to their draw with Mansfield Town last night.

Indeed, the U's have only spent ten hours 12 minutes in a losing position this season, with 25 hours and four minutes spent neck and neck.

Colchester head into their home clash with fellow play-off contenders Tranmere Rovers this weekend, looking to get back on track.

And the U's will be hoping all of the numbers stack up for them when they return to the JobServe Community Stadium on Saturday, as they strive to break back into the top seven.

Stats provided by bwin - visit https://sports.bwin.com/en/news/football/game-states-infographic