Freddie Sears is back, and he means business.

Colchester United’s leading scorer has been out for a whole month, with a sore hamstring, but he looks set to start at in-form Preston North End this afternoon.

Manager Joe Dunne has decided to let striker Elliot Lee return early to West Ham, before the 18-year-old’s loan deal expired this weekend, because the likes of Sears, Jabo Ibehre and Gavin Massey are all fighting fit again after injury.

Sears can’t wait to build on his fine start to the season, and will be looking to increase his four-goal tally at Deepdale.

“It’s good to be back,” enthused Sears.

“It’s been a frustrating last month, but I’ve worked hard and got myself back into shape.

“I played a game the other day (a friendly against Ipswich Town XI) and felt good, so hopefully I will be involved on Saturday.

“I’m all ready to go,” added Sears.

Ex-West Ham attacker Sears limped off the pitch during the midweek 1-1 draw at Shrewsbury Town on October 22, the same evening that David Wright also tweaked his hamstring.

Sears was an unused substitute during last Saturday’s disappointing 2-1 home defeat to Swindon, but will be involved at Preston, who moved up to fifth in League One by toppling league leaders Leyton Orient with a 1-0 away win last weekend.

The 23-year-old scored twice in Tuesday afternoon’s 5-2 win over Ipswich, in a behind-closed-doors friendly, to confirm his return to fitness.

Midfielder Craig Eastmond is a definite non-starter, due to suspension, but Luke Garbutt should return after serving his own one-match ban.