Is Ryan Inn or out of Vale clash?

Ryan Inniss could return for Colchester against Port Vale after missing last weekend's 3-2 win at Swindon.

Inniss has recovered well from his shoulder injury and is expected to play.

Kurtis Guthrie (ankle) and Luke Prosser (knee) could also feature after recovering well from their injuries.

Sanmi Odelusi is not expected to feature for the club again after being told he would not be offered a new contract when his six-month deal expires at the end of December.

Port Vale will welcome back winger Cristian Montano from suspension but right-back James Gibbons is still banned.

The pair both missed last week's trip to Carlisle after being sent off in the FA Cup defeat at Yeovil but Gibbons must sit out a further three games.

Gibbons' absence means midfielder Danny Pugh could continue at left-back in a reshaped defence.

Regular left-back Gavin Gunning may again play in central defence with Nathan Smith filling in at right-back.