Colchester United will travel to Cheshire for a summer training camp next month, as part of their preparations for the new League Two season.

The U’s are set to follow in the footsteps of the likes of Spanish giants Real Betis, Serie A side Genoa and the England under-20 squad when they set up base at the Carden Park Hotel near Chester, as they gear up for the forthcoming campaign.

Colchester, who will stay at the venue between July 13 and 16, will use the trip as a way of building up their players’ fitness levels at the impressive rural retreat.

And the U’s also want to use the training camp to help with team bonding, as they prepare for life under new first-team coach John McGreal.

Colchester assistant manager Steve Ball said: “It’s a fabulous facility and set-up there and will serve as good preparation for us before the start of the new season.

“The way that it’s always worked with John and I is that you set your rules out with these trips.

“The lads will be together 24/7 and it’s great because like in any squad, you have some senior players and some younger lads and this kind of trip gives you the opportunity to build a good understanding within the squad from the word go.

“Pre-season trips like this one help to stand you in good stead for the whole of the season.

“It’s all systems go and we’re planning to hit the ground running when the new season starts.

“Every single player coming back in pre-season will be looking to impress.”

Meanwhile, Ball insists allowing Premier League academy teams to take part in the Football League Trophy can be a positive thing.

The U’s recently voted in favour of the pilot format for the competition, formerly known as the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy, which will see Premier League sides enter their under-21 teams next season.

“I personally think having Premier League involvement in this competition can only be a good thing,” said former Arsenal youngster Ball.

“The loan system is place and playing these teams potentially gives you the opportunity to see other clubs players.

“My personal view is that the competition needed freshening up a bit.

“We don’t think this as a club but I know other clubs have seen the competition as a bit of a hindrance in the past and I think the changes can be a positive.”