COLCHESTER United boss John Ward has confirmed that striker Steven Gillespie will miss this Saturday’s home against Bury, due to suspension.

COLCHESTER United boss John Ward has confirmed that striker Steven Gillespie will miss this Saturday’s home against Bury, due to suspension.

Gillespie picked up his fifth booking of the season, after coming on as a substitute during last weekend’s 1-0 defeat to Swindon Town in the FA Cup.

The ex-Cheltenham striker has only started two games all season, and only played one full 90 minutes, in the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy against Barnet at the end of August.

And yet he has still managed to accumulate five bookings.

“Steven is suspended for Saturday,” confirmed U’s boss Ward.

“It’s a blow for us, certainly. He’s done well to get five bookings!” added the U’s boss, tongue in cheek.

On the plus side, Ward is hoping that John-Joe O’Toole will return to the squad for the visit of the Shakers.

O’Toole returned to action, after a recent groin operation, for last night’s Essex Senior Cup fourth round tie against AFC Hornchurch, a game the U’s won 4-1. Midfielder O’Toole featured for an hour.

“The plan is for John-Joe to train tomorrow and Friday, and then looks towards Saturday’s game,” confirmed Ward.