Speaking ahead of their first home game of the season against Northampton Town, manager John Askey said how he and his squad are prepared for a challenging match.

Prior to their first game at Vale Park of the new season, Askey and his players have been reviewing their Colchester United performance, with the gaffer pleased for the possession football played, and how well they defended.

The boss also highlighted key areas he wished for his squad to improve upon, and has been preparing the team for what he knows will be a different type of game against the Cobblers.

Askey noted how important and helpful the incredible support given by the fans is for the team, and is hopeful that the optimistic feeling around the club will help carry the team towards another good performance and their first win of the season.

As the Valiants seek their first three points, the gaffer pointed out how he believes there is no worse feeling than when your team fails to win the game, and hopes to be feeling good on Saturday.

He said: “We can feel that everybody’s behind the football club, hopefully, if the players perform on the pitch, we know the supporters will get behind the players.

“The only thing that matters on Saturday is getting that win.

“Everything’s great at the moment, and we want to try and keep it going.”

The gaffer pointed out however, that Northampton will be a difficult obstacle to overcome, as they are a good side that will be aiming for promotion this campaign.

They are a very physical side, consisting of big players that they utilise well in their style of play, that involves getting the ball into the box to be attacked.

Askey noted how Northampton also have players who are skilful and good with the ball in their side, as well as experienced heads, making them a formidable opposition.

The gaffer was aware of the heavy investment Northampton had had over the summer, and the quality of the players they brought in, but believes his team are more than capable of coming away with the points.

He said: “Colchester were big, but Northampton are even bigger.

“I expect plenty of balls to be going into our box, they’ll be dangerous at set pieces, that’s where they are most dangerous.

“They’re a tough team, but we’ve got to make sure we’re tougher.”