Two of Colchester United’s most experienced players are facing up to life on the sidelines for the next few weeks.

East Anglian Daily Times: Brennan Dickenson, hampered by a sore hamstring. Picture: STEVE WALLERBrennan Dickenson, hampered by a sore hamstring. Picture: STEVE WALLER (Image: � Copyright Stephen Waller)

Midfielder Tom Lapslie has gone in for an operation on a knee problem, while team-mate Brennan Dickenson is struggling with a back injury.

Both players missed last weekend’s 3-1 away win at Cheltenham, a result which propelled John McGreal’s men up to fourth in League Two.

Tonight, the U’s play their first group match in the Checkatrade Trophy, when they entertain Southampton Under-21s (kick-off 7.45pm).

McGreal is set to ring the changes.

Lapslie and Dickenson will remain out of action – Lapslie looks like being sidelined for up to six weeks – while Brandon Comley is unavailable due to international duty.

The likes of midfielder Diaz Wright, striker Mikael Mandron and Wolves loanee Aaron Collins are all pushing for a rare start.

Speaking about the club’s recent injury blows, McGreal said: “Tom (Lapslie) went in for his operation and is out for six weeks.

“He’s had to go in. He thought it was his IT B band, but it’s not. He’s got something floating in there, which he has had to get taken out.

“He went in last Thursday, so it’s a killer blow.

“Dicko (Dickenson) went down injured on Thursday. He picked up a back injury. He pulled out of training straight away, before the session, so hopefully that’s not too bad.

“So that’s generally two of our best XI out of action. They have been two of our pivotal, mainstay players.

“Brandon (Comley) is also away, from Sunday to Sunday,” added McGreal.

Comley, who started at Whaddon Road, as Lapslie’s replacement, is in the Montserrat squad to face El Salvador in a CONCACAF Nations League qualifier this Saturday.

Meanwhile, U’s under-23s regular, George Brown, has joined Bostik Premier League side Margate on loan for a month.

Following tonight’s game, the U’s have further group matches at home to Southend United (October 9) and away at Cambridge United (November 13) to determine whether or not they will progress to the knock-out stages.