CLUB stalwart Karl Duguid is set to chalk up his 398th league appearance for Colchester United, against bottom club Chesterfield today.

Duguid is therefore rapidly closing in on the magic 400 landmark, a tremendous feat for a 33-year-old who has been a loyal servant to the U’s, albeit for a three-year spell at Plymouth.

“I am aware of it. But I never dreamed of playing 400 games for this football club, when I first started, and when I left (to join Plymouth in 2008) I never thought it either,” explained Duguid

“I never thought I would come back to try and do that.

“If it happens, then great. But I’ve got 398 to go first!”

Duguid will be hoping to again feature against Chesterfield this afternoon, despite the arrival of attacking new recruit Gavin Massey, on loan from Watford.

Winger Duguid will certainly not be under-estimating the Spireites.

“Everyone was saying that Scunthorpe were struggling, but they put in a good away performance to get a 1-1 draw last weekend,” insisted Duguid.

“That’s why we can’t rest on our laurels against Chesterfield.

“The new signing has got to be healthy for the squad. It will keep people on their toes.

“I think it is important to bring in people at this time, especially as we have a couple of niggling injuries.

“Hopefully his arrival can push us on to do that bit extra.”

Striker Kayode Odejayi is a doubt, due to a sore ankle, as is midfielder John-Joe O’Toole with a slight groin strain. Both will be aiming for a place on the bench, at best.