COLCHESTER United boss Aidy Boothroyd believes his play-off chasing side need the points more than relegation-threatened Tranmere Rovers today.

The U’s know that anything but victory would almost certainly end their chances of a top six finish and a shot at promotion back to the Championship.

In contrast, their Merseyside visitors require the points for very different reasons – Les Parry’s side are cast two points adrift of League One safety with a vastly inferior goal difference to those around them.

With just three games to go the odds appear to be stacked against both of today’s teams in their respective quests. Try telling that to the managers though.

“We’ll fight all the way until our last breath,” said Boothroyd, whose side are six points adrift of Huddersfield. “They (Tranmere) need the points, but in my opinion we need the points more.”

Meanwhile, Rovers boss Parry – who also doubles up as the club’s physio – has refused to give up the fight. Following Brentford’s late winner against his side in midweek, he said: “We’re not giving up hope. We’ve got three games left and realistically we need three wins.”

Colchester and Tranmere both come into today’s game in poor form. Boothroyd’s side have taken a measly six points from the last available 33, while Rovers have claimed just 11 in that period.

The U’s, however, will be hopeful that home advantage will prove key. Colchester have the fourth best home record in the division, while Tranmere have the second worst away record.

Colchester will once again be without Kayode Odejayi (ankle) today, although midfielder Anthony Wordsworth is available again following his two-match suspension, while defender Franck Queudrue could return to the starting line-up following his recent hamstring injury.

Tranmere received a blow this week with the news that influential midfielder Paul McClaren (thigh) won’t return this season, however Shaleum Logan (hernia), Andy Robinson (groin) and Chris McCready (hamstring) – on loan from Manchester City, Leeds and Northampton respectively – could all return after injury.