Harry Pell hands Colchester boost ahead of Port Vale clash

Colchester should have midfielder Harry Pell in contention again for the Sky Bet League Two opener against Port Vale.

Pell has returned to fitness following a hamstring injury which saw him forced to miss the final three months of the last campaign.

Forward Jevani Brown is expected to make his debut following a summer move from Cambridge.

Fellow new recruits Luke Gambin, Michael Fernandes, Omar Sowunmi, Danny Collinge, forward Paris Cowan-Hall and veteran goalkeeper Dean Gerken could also be involved.

Port Vale have a few injury concerns for the trip to Essex.

Midfielder Cristian Montano picked up a hamstring problem during a pre-season friendly and his return to full training is being monitored.

Ryan Lloyd is carrying an ankle injury and winger Rhys Browne, a summer signing from Yeovil, has a hamstring problem.

Goalkeeper Jonny Maddison has signed following a successful trial, while new recruits David Amoo, Marc Cullen and Richie Bennett will all be hoping to be involved.