Colchester United kick-off their new League Two campaign at Accrington Stanley tomorrow afternoon, but Alex Wynter will not be a part of the squad.

Instead, centre-half Wynter, who featured regularly during pre-season, has left the Essex club by mutual consent to join National League side Maidstone United.

The 23-year-old had his U’s contract terminated, in order to join up with his new Maidstone team-mates ahead of their new season, whihc begins with a home match against Maidenhead this afternoon.

Wynter rattled up 54 senior games for the U’s, and it is a little surprising that he has left now, on the eve of a new campaign – fellow centre-half Luke Prosser is still struggling with injury, while George Elokobi left the club earlier on the summer.

- U’s at Accrington Stanley team news

U’s Director of Football Tony Humes said: “Alex is a player who needs first team football and he hadn’t had that opportunity here.

“All parties felt it was right that he had a chance to find a new club and this is a good opportunity for him. We wish him well in the next stage of his career.”