COLCHESTER United midfielder Johnnie Jackson is relishing being “the underdog” for this evening's Carling Cup second round clash at Portman Road.The U's might be unfancied to beat hosts Ipswich, especially since suffering relegation last term, but Jackson is undaunted by the challenge.

Carl Marston

COLCHESTER United midfielder Johnnie Jackson is relishing being “the underdog” for this evening's Carling Cup second round clash at Portman Road.

The U's might be unfancied to beat hosts Ipswich, especially since suffering relegation last term, but Jackson is undaunted by the challenge.

“It's going to be a tantalising encounter. It's a good cup tie to look forward to,” insisted Jackson, who scored the first in the U's 3-1 win at Swindon on Saturday.

“It's a nice distraction from the league for us. We will be the underdogs, which means we have nothing to lose. It's a great game for the fans, and it's a game that we all want to be a part of.

“There's no reason why we can't go to Ipswich and get a win. We were the better team for the first 70 minutes at their place last season, but ended up conceding three late goals (3-1 defeat).

“I remember walking off the pitch at the end of that game, thinking to myself - “How did that happen!” - We have since been relegated, and

so are a division below Ipswich now, but we want to relax and play our football.

“Portman Road is a nice place to play, and we're looking to build on our three-match unbeaten run,” added Jackson.

U's team-mate Anthony Wordsworth has started the first four games

of the season, thanks to some eye-catching displays in pre-season.

It is no guarantee that Wordsworth will play this evening - U's boss Geraint Williams might make a few changes - but the teenager wants to be involved.

“It would be my first taste of a local derby, so I want to play.

It should be a great game, but we'll have to wait and see whether I'm selected,” said Wordsworth.