Colchester boss McGreal set to stick with top scorer Norris

Posted Sunday, December 23, 2018 by PA

Colchester boss John McGreal is likely to keep the faith with top scorer Luke Norris for their Boxing Day clash at home to Stevenage.

The eight-goal forward has been involved in the last three matches – two off the substitutes bench and as part of the starting line-up for Saturday’s 1-0 win at MK Dons following an ankle injury.

The U’s have won three of their last four games to sit third in the League Two table and are looking to build on their latest win after bouncing back in Milton Keynes having suffered a 4-0 defeat at Carlisle.

Defender Tom Eastman (eye) played a full 90 minutes at the weekend on his return from injury and looks to retain his starting spot.

Stevenage boss Dino Maamria hopes his side can bounce back from their 3-1 defeat at home to Mansfield – after going ahead – for the trip.

He said: “I thought it was a harsh result. The 3-1 scoreline doesn’t really reflect our performance. But we’ll regroup, stay positive and move forward.”

Maamria may look to striker Ben Kennedy to repeat the form he showed in the previous 1-1 draw at Northampton, while goalkeeper Seny Dieng returned to the bench at the weekend following illness.

The game may come too soon for injured influential midfielder Michael Timlin. The former Southend player is expected to miss the busy Christmas schedule.