Colchester United vs Bristol City preview - Duo back in U's frame

Posted Friday, February 20, 2015 by PA

Alex Gilbey and George Moncur could return to the starting line-up when relegation-threatened Colchester take on leaders Bristol City.

Gilbey and Moncur featured from the bench in Tuesday's defeat to MK Dons after spells on the sidelines with an ankle injury and tonsillitis respectively.

"It's lovely to have them back," said U's boss Tony Humes, whose side are one point from safety. "Obviously they're a bit short of match practice and fitness, but there's an opportunity for them to be thrust into it on Saturday."

Humes will assess David Fox, who was forced off in midweek with a leg injury, and Sanchez Watt (illness), while he must decide whether to hand Rhys Healey (appendix) his first appearance in over a month.

Bristol City have a fully-fit squad for the first time since December as they prepare to make the long trip.

The Robins were able to hand 20 valuable minutes to Aaron Wilbraham in their midweek win over Peterborough and the former MK Dons man could be in contention to start for the first time since December 20 having overcome his hip problem.

Kieran Agard netted his first goal for two months in that win and Steve Cotterill could keep the faith with the former Rotherham man or recall Jay Emmanuel-Thomas.

City have opened up a five-point gap at the top of League One ahead of back-to-back away games.