John McGreal believes Colchester United’s under-21 clash with Leeds United is another example of why it was essential they secured Category Two academy status.

The U’s youngsters head to Elland Road tonight for their latest Professional Development League Two fixture.

Colchester are back in the Elite Player Performance Plan under-21 programme this season, having successfully secured Category Two recognition earlier this year.

And boss McGreal feels the chance for the club’s youngsters to play at grounds like Elland Road is essential for their development.

McGreal said: “It’s fantastic that we got Category Two and it’s another example of why we wanted to get there so much.

“It’s brilliant that we’re in because we’ve got these kind of games to play in and we have them week in, week out.

“Leeds will be top quality opponents for us to face and playing at Elland Road will be a great experience for our lads.”

McGreal played against Leeds at Elland Road on numerous occasions during his playing career, where he served the likes of Ipswich Town, Burnley and Tranmere Rovers.

He won there twice and the former defender says he enjoyed playing there, over the years.

He added: “I played there as a player a few times and I’ve got happy memories of playing there.”

The likes of Kevin Lokko, Tom Lapslie and Byron Lawrence are all set to feature for Colchester (kick-off 7pm).