Colchester United manager Danny Cowley has hinted he may be tempted to make multiple changes to his side for tonight’s Vertu Trophy tie at home to Gillingham this evening.
The U’s are currently second in Southern group G with three points from a win away at Wycombe Wanderers in September.
Poor Start
Colchester United’s League Two season began with very mixed results. Under Head Coach Danny Cowley, who recently signed a new contract until 2028, the team showed resilience despite a challenging start. Key players like Jack Payne and Arthur Read provide calmness and experience to the squad. By this week, Colchester recorded recent notable results, including a 6-2 victory over Chesterfield and a 2-0 win at Shrewsbury. However, losses to Barrow and Fleetwood Town have highlighted inconsistencies. Fan sentiment remains unsure on Cowley’s set-up as the club sits 19th, only five off the table.
Who May Come In?
Danny Cowley looks poised to shake up Colchester United’s lineup for tonight’s crucial Vertu Trophy clash against Gillingham at the JobServe Community Stadium, aiming to secure knockout progression in Southern Group G. With both sides on three points, Cowley, who is fresh off a 6-2 league demolition of Chesterfield, emphasises squad rotation to manage fatigue and reward form for the whole squad.
There are set to be opportunities for promising, predominantly younger talents. Striker Samson Tovide looks to be back amongst goals after a strong pre-season; versatile midfielder Josh Powell is capable of injecting energy in the middle of the park. Defender Rob Hunt, who is a steady presence at right-back, whilst winger John Kymani Gordon is capable of unlocking defences with his pace and power. Second choice goalkeeper Tom Smith is challenging for starts, but is struggling to get in front of Matt Macey and recent signing Jaden Williams, who scored a goal in the 2-1 Trophy win at Wycombe Wanderers last month.
Cowleys Comments
Speaking to Colchester United Youtube channel, Cowley said:
“It’s a great competition for us and it’s one that we want to do well in.”
“Also, with so many great young players at the club, we can give them a good opportunity to play against senior professionals.”
“It’s also opportunity for some who maybe haven’t had so much game time.”
“They naturally come with positive energy and enthusiasm.”
“There’ll be a few young ones who’ll play on Tuesday night and it’s just a great opportunity.”
“They’ve been training well with us on a regular basis and the chance now to take that training and put it into a game.”
“For them just at the start of their journey, it’s so exciting.”
Writers View
Danny Cowley’s leadership has kept Colchester United stagnant in League Two, a change from his trophy-winning days at Lincoln City, where he claimed the EFL Trophy in 2018. His tactical style, shown by nine savvy changes at Wycombe, delivered vital wins, proving he’s astutely won it with strategic mastery.
