COLCHESTER United have a host of players on international duty over the course of the next week, which is unheard of in the history of the club.Matthew Connolly is the latest to be called up by his country.

By Carl Marston

COLCHESTER United have a host of players on international duty over the course of the next week, which is unheard of in the history of the club.

Matthew Connolly is the latest to be called up by his country. The Arsenal loanee has been included in the England Under-21 squad for the next two European Championship qualifiers.

Centre-half Connolly is in Stuart Pearce's squad to face Bulgaria at the MK Dons stadium on Friday evening (kick-off 6pm).

And the 20-year-old defender will then travel to Portugal for a second qualifier the following Tuesday (9pm).

Connolly has impressed since his season-long loan move from the Emirates Stadium to Layer Road last summer. He has made 10 appearances for the U's, although he was rested for last Saturday's 2-2 draw at league leaders Watford.

Meanwhile, winger Mark Yeates is preparing to play for the Republic of Ireland “B” team in a friendly fixture against Scotland in Airdrie next Tuesday.

Ironically Yeates, who is the U's leading scorer with seven goals, will be up against former Colchester team-mate Chris Iwelumo, who is in the Scotland “B” squad.

Elsewhere, Bela Balogh continues his duties with the Hungarian senior squad. Balogh enjoyed his third start for the U's at Vicarage Road on Saturday, replacing Connolly in central defence.

And talented teenager Medy Elito, who is yet to make a senior appearance for the U's, is involved in the England under-18 squad.

United have no game this weekend, due to the fortnight's break for internationals.

Their next fixture is at home to Crystal Palace on Saturday, November 24.