COLCHESTER United could be set to bolster their full-back options, ahead of the new season.

The U’s are lighter in that department heading into the new League Two season, following Brennan Dickenson’s departure to MK Dons.

And Ryan Jackson’s recent absence due to an abdominal problem – along with the manner of Colchester’s 5-0 friendly defeat at the hands of Ipswich Town - has further brought to light the U’s possible need to strengthen, in that area.

Colchester head coach John McGreal recently stated that they are likely to have completed their summer transfer business but is now refusing to rule out the possibility of bringing in another full-back.

McGreal said: “It’s a possible area where we need to improve.

“We are light in the full-back area, with Brennan Dickenson going.

“We’ve got young Dean Ager there and Danny Collinge came on (against Ipswich) at right-back and Cameron James has played there, too.”

Colchester are hopeful that experienced right-back Jackson will be fit for the start of the new season.

The former Gillingham defender has missed the U’s last two friendly matches with an abdominal injury.

However, a scan has revealed no major issues and he is expected to resume training, last this week.

“Ryan’s had his scan – he’s got something going on in the stomach area so we’re looking at possibly Wednesday or Thursday time for him to re-start training,” said McGreal.

“Fingers crossed, it’s not as bad as we thought.”

Meanwhile, Todd Miller’s departure to Brighton and Hove Albion was a ‘club decision’ according to McGreal.

McGreal made the winger the U’s youngest-ever first-team player in March when the talented teenager came on as a late substitute in their League Two game at Exeter City, at the age of 16 years and 166 days.

Colchester are expected to be sufficiently compensated for the loss of teenager Miller, who is initially expected to link up with the Premier League club’s academy.

Miller, who made only first-team appearance for Colchester, follows fellow academy products Sammie Szmodics and Frankie Kent in leaving the U's, this summer.

“It’s the club’s decision,” added McGreal.

“Todd is the youngest player to play for Colchester United.

“I was a fan of his and that’s why I got him involved in the first team.

“He was able to make his debut and be in and around the squad towards the end of the season.

“The big boys came knocking and we’ve found that one or two times, this pre-season.

“There’s opportunities but it’s also good for the club as well and we’ve seen that.”