John-Joe O’Toole can still play a part in Colchester United’s season finale, according to boss John Ward.

The tenacious midfielder has endured a frustrating campaign which has been disrupted by injury.

O’Toole has not started a first-team match for the U’s since their 6-1 thrashing at the hands of Stevenage, on Boxing Day.

However, he appeared as a late substitute in the 1-1 draw with Sheffield Wednesday, last weekend.

And the former Watford man came through 90 minutes earlier this week when Colchester were beaten by Canvey Island, in the Essex Senior Cup Final.

O’Toole, who is out of contract at the end of the season, is now pushing for more match action, in League One.

Ward said: “John-Joe got 90 minutes against Canvey Island and he looked pretty strong.

“He gives another addition and we’ve missed him around the pitch a little bit.

“We threw him on at the end against Sheffield Wednesday and I think that was good for him.

“He’s had a lot of time out and to have him around for the last part will be good.

“Both John-Joe and Ashley (Vincent) haven’t played much football and both want to play.

“But it will be hard for me to leave someone out after the performance against Sheffield Wednesday.

“I’m aware of what John-Joe and Ashley can offer to the group but there have been players who have been really strong over the last ten games.”