New Icelandic defender Ãvar Ingimarsson is set to be one of three players making their first appearances in a Town shirt when the Blues travel to Colchester United this evening (KO 7.45pm). The 34-year-old, who has been sidelined with a thigh injury for much of pre-season, is due to be joined by new loan keeper David Stockdale and striker or midfielder Jay Emmanuel-Thomas for the visit to the Weston Homes Community Stadium, with their signings expected to be announced later this afternoon.
Strikers Michael Chopra and Tamás Priskin will also make the short trip along the A12, the former Cardiff man having been subbed at Southend on Friday with a minor ankle knock, while the Hungarian missed the 1-1 draw with the Shrimpers due to a back problem.
The match also sees former Blues defender Tom Eastman face his old club after joining the U’s on a free transfer in the summer having turned down a new deal at Portman Road.
Eastman, 19, says he’s looking forward to the game: "I’m excited about seeing my old mates but obviously this time I’ve got to go out and try and do well against them, rather than for them.
"I was at Ipswich for 11 years and enjoyed my time at Portman Road. I was a big fan of Roy Keane, who offered me my first professional contract and gave me my league debut last year against Sheffield United.
"He treated me well and I really like Paul Jewell too. Coming here was the right move for me in terms of playing football, though. I feel I’ve got a better chance of being around the first team.”
Town are set to take more than 1,500 fans to Essex with tickets available on the night from the Colchester Ticket Office, not on the turnstiles. The Blues have been allocated a stand which holds 1,900 with additional capacity if required.
Parking at the stadium is very limited and fans are advised to buy a permit in advance via the Colchester United Ticket Office on 0845 437 9089. There is also a shuttle bus service, which runs from Colchester Station, costing £1.50.