COLCHESTER United keeper Ben Williams is set to miss the start of the new season due to a viral infection, which is currently keeping him in hospital.

COLCHESTER United keeper Ben Williams is set to miss the start of the new season due to a viral infection, which is currently keeping him in hospital.

U’s No. 1 Williams was taken ill during the mini-tour of Holland last week. He has since spent time at a hospital in Arnhem, and back home in his native north-west.

U’s boss John Ward confirmed: “It is thought that Ben has some form of viral infection.

“He has been looked after very well both by own our staff, in particular Tony Flynn, and by the specialists at the hospital.”

The U’s continue their pre-season campaign with a friendly against Braintree Town at Cressing Road this evening, which is a benefit match for Jamie Guy.