Colchester United have suffered an injury blow after winger Drey Wright was ruled out for the rest of the season with a cruciate ligament knee injury.

And U's boss Tony Humes could be prompted to make a move in the transfer market to bring in a replacement, after Wright's long-term KO.

Wright, who missed the majority of last season with an injury to his right knee, suffered the injury to his left knee playing for the under-21s against Sheffield Wednesday earlier this month.

Humes said: "It's really disappointing from Drey's perspective because he's done really well and he's worked hard to get himself back in contention.

"He's a big part of our plans and he's done really well this season and worked hard to get himself back in that position following his long injury lay-off with his other knee.

"From Drey's point of view it's really disappointing but he has to get his head round it and think about next season now.

"He's still a young man with a big future ahead of him and he has to believe in that and be patient to get through it.

"We'll look after him and encourage him to do the right things to be ready for next season."

Wright is expected to undergo an operation on his left knee in the next fortnight, before beginning another long rehabilitation programme.

For all of the latest Colchester United news, see the Daily Gazette.