Courtney Senior, fresh from scoring on his first-team debut, should feature again against Reading Under-21s in a Checkatrade EFL Trophy Southern Group B match this evening (7.30pm).

Front-runner Senior, introduced as an 85th minute substitute against Forest Green Rovers, swept home Colchester United’s fifth in the third minute of stoppage time, in a 5-1 victory.

Senior looks set to be on the bench again tonight, as the U’s kick-off their Trophy campaign – they have another home match in the competition, against Gillingham on October 3, before travelling to Southend on November 7.

The 20-year-old, recruited from Brentford last summer, has been dogged by a year-long knee injury.

“It’s been a long 12 months, and a rocky road for me, but it’s great to be back, and great that I came on and made an impact,” said Senior.

“I played a few games for the under-23s early last season, before injuring my knee at Ipswich, when I landed awkwardly while crossing a ball. That was hard to take on board, having just come to the club. I was hoping to make an impression.

“I’m not 100% fit yet, but I feel that I am ready to make an impact in games, like I did against Forest Green. There have been loads of ups and downs over the last 12 months, but I’ve just had to stick at it, because if you don’t then injuries can come back and haunt you. I’ve made sure that I’m fitter and stronger. My knee is fully recovered, but I just need to get some games.

“For my goal, Forest Green were pressing so high. Tommy (O’Sullivan) wasn’t trying to set me up – I think it was a shot – but I ended up getting on the end of it.

“Now I want a few more appearances, although I’ve still got to impress (manager) John (McGreal). I’d love to be involved this week. Hopefully, I have done enough to be involved. I want to get another opportunity.”

Once again, three points will be awarded for a win, and one point for a draw after 90 minutes, with a bonus point on offer for the winners of a penalty shoot-out. The Category One Academy teams must field at least six under-21 players in their starting XI.

Kyel Reid is a serious doubt tonight, having felt his sore ankle during the second half of Saturday’s big win. Reid netted the first and set up the second.