Colchester v Carlisle preview

Colchester midfielder Craig Slater will be assessed ahead of the visit of Carlisle.

Slater returned to action following illness in the 2-0 win over Cheltenham on January 2, but was replaced by Tarique Fosu-Henry for the closing stages of what was a fourth successive victory for John McGreal's side who are unbeaten in six matches.

Defender Matt Briggs, who had hip surgery in August, could be an option after making a comeback in the midweek Essex Senior Cup tie against East Thurrock, when new signing Jermaine Grandison also featured.

Forward Sammie Szmodics, though, faces a spell on the sidelines following an operation on his ankle. Doug Loft (Achilles), Luke Prosser (knee) and Lewis Kinsella (ankle) all continue their recovery.

Carlisle will have defender Macauley Gillesphey available for the trip south after the Cumbrians extended the player's loan spell from parent club Newcastle until the end of the season.

Boss Keith Curle is demanding an immediate response from his side who sunk to their first home league defeat of the season against Grimsby on Monday.

Jamie Devitt is pushing for a recall after replacing fellow striker Shaun Miller for the final half-hour of a disappointing afternoon at Brunton Park.

Mike Jones is struggling to shake off his recent ankle problem while midfielder Russell Penn is hoping to feature for the first time since returning from his loan spell at Gateshead.