David Wright is on the verge of signing a new deal with Colchester United.

Experienced midfielder Wright, whose last contract expired this summer, is still in talks with the U’s and looks all set to sign within the next few days.

The 34-year-old former Crewe, Wigan, Ipswich and Crystal Palace stalwart was back at the U’s Florence Park training complex in Tiptree on Monday and again yesterday, as the U’s began their pre-season training.

“We’re still talking, and hopefully there will be some good news over the next few days,” revealed Wright.

“Hopefully, you will still be seeing me in a Colchester shirt next season.

“There’s already a good vibe going around the club, after the first day of training, because the nucleus of the squad is still there.

“And I think this coming season is going to be a really big one for several of the younger lads,” added Wright.

The likes of Alex Gilbey, Macauley Bonne and Sammie Szmodics all played a part in the U’s preserving their League One status last season, and Wright should be an important figure in helping to bring on these teenagers still further this year.

“Several of the younger lads dipped in and out of the team last season,” continued Wright.

“They got a taste of it, before some of them took a back seat when some of the older players got fit again. But if they can impress in pre-season this summer, then I think they have a real chance of being a big part of the team.

“Everyone looks in good nick at the moment. We have all followed our personal programmes over the summer, and everyone was fit enough so that we could get the footballs out during the first afternoon.”