Colchester United look set for a season-long challenge for promotion, and manager John McGreal wants them to “enjoy it.

The U’s, in third spot in League Two, face their biggest trek of the season with the 630-mile round trip to Cumbria, to take on Carlisle United this afternoon.

They are bang in form, winning seven of their last 11 games to become genuine automatic promotion contenders, and are targeting three wins on the bounce following back-to-back successes at Forest Green Rovers and at home to Macclesfield Town, both by 1-0 scorelines.

“We will be trying to chase down the top two, but we have several big boys behind us as well, who are on our coat-tails,” explained McGreal.

“And I’m sure that some of these big clubs will be looking to improve their squads in January (during the transfer window).

“The boys have done well to be in the top three, and to be in and around the top seven all season.

“We’ve got to enjoy it, that’s the most important thing, and the boys do look as though they are enjoying it. They are playing without fear at the moment.

“This weekend is a long trip, but we will that as a positive, because all the lads know each other very well.

“Carlisle have had some poor results at home, and that might prey on their mind, although they have a squad that is capable of being in the top seven. They have also been doing well away from home.

“As for us, the goals have not been coming as much, but we are keeping clean-sheets, and our shots per game ratio is still very good.

“Our defence looks very discipline, and is combative,” added McGreal.

The U’s boss has received good news, at both ends of the pitch, over the last week or so.

Joint leading scorer, Luke Norris (eight goals) returned to action as a substitute last weekend and is pushing for a start after a five-week absence with an ankle injury.

Meanwhile, centre-half Tom Eastman is in contention again after a head injury.

CARLISLE: Collin, Liddle, Gerrard, Gillesphey, Sowerby, Parkes, Slater, Jones, Etuhu, Hope, Nadesan, Devitt, Bennett, Miller, Grainger, Campbell, Parkes, McCarron & Gray

, COLCHESTER: Barnes, Jackson, Prosser, Kent, Vincent-Young, Pell, Lapslie, Senior, Szmodics, Nouble, Mandron, Norris, Comley, Dickenson, Collins, Kensdale, Eastman, Gondhoh & Gilmartin.

Referee: Eddie Ilderton (Tyne & Wear)