WANT-away midfielder Johnnie Jackson was a notable absentee at today's official Colchester United Media Day at the Weston Homes Community Stadium.

Carl Marston

WANT-away midfielder Johnnie Jackson was a notable absentee at today's official Colchester United Media Day at the Weston Homes Community Stadium.

Jackson is desperate to leave the U's, having asked for a transfer last month. The former Tottenham 26-year-old has only featured for 45 minutes in pre-season, at the first friendly at Tiptree a month ago.

U's boss Paul Lambert confirmed: “I have always wanted Johnnie (Jackson) to stay and give it a go at Colchester, but his agent came to me and said that he wanted to leave.

“That's his choice, not mine. Johnnie has said that he wants to play in central midfield, but I can't guarantee him a place in that position.

“As yet, we have had no offers for him,” added Lambert.

Jackson was therefore not included in the official team photo shoot. Medy Elito and Matt Lockwood were also not present, suggesting that both are expected to move on in the near-future.