PORTMAN Road could play host to a Colchester United home game in August.Ipswich Town have been approached by the U's who are concerned that their new stadium at Cuckoo Farm will not be fully open in time for first couple of weeks of the new season and have asked if they would allow them to play at the Blues' home.

Derek Davis

IN FACTFILE

PORTMAN Road could play host to a Colchester United home game in August.

Ipswich Town have been approached by the U's who are concerned that their new stadium at Cuckoo Farm will not be fully open in time for first couple of weeks of the new season and have asked if they would allow them to play at the Blues' home.

The U's will play their opening League One game of the season away from home and plan to play their first game in the new ground on August 16, once the Cuckoo Farm stadium has passed all the safety requirements.

But they are concerned that they could get drawn at home in the League Cup and if so would want to play at another ground.

An Ipswich Town spokesman last night confirmed: “Initial talks have been held between the two clubs regarding Colchester United playing a game at Portman Road.”

Although no formal agreement has yet been reached the EADT understands Ipswich are sympathetic to the U's plight and are keen to be good neighbours and accede to the request.