Danny Cowley will use Colchester United's EFL Trophy clash with holders Luton Town to run the rule over his squad's fringe players. The U's boss confirmed the rearranged Group D fixture is a prime opportunity for those on the periphery to stake a claim for regular involvement.
Cowley reiterated his belief that internal competition is essential for driving standards. "We want to have competition in every department, that’s always the ambition," he said. The manager stressed it is up to the players themselves to seize their chance and force their way into the team.
Connolly's chance
Young striker Kien Connolly is among those set to benefit after making his EFL debut earlier this season. Cowley praised the 20-year-old's progress following productive loan spells at AFC Sudbury and Dagenham & Redbridge. "It was great for Kien to make his EFL debut," Cowley noted.
Luton Town, the current Jersey Mike's Trophy holders, head into the match on the back of a 6-0 win over Ipswich Town U21s in the same competition. That result was a bright spot in a mixed start to the League One campaign, where Jack Wilshere's side currently sit 16th with eight points from seven games.
The match at the JobServe Community Stadium kicks off at 3pm on Saturday, 3 October, having been brought forward from its original date. Luton's next League One assignment is a home game against Doncaster Rovers, who are 21st in the table. Check our fixtures page for the complete schedule.
