ENJOY the challenge.

That is the message from Colchester United boss Tony Humes, ahead of tonight’s tough League One contest at home to MK Dons.

The U’s are in the midst of a tricky run of fixtures against promotion-chasing sides.

They won 1-0 at Oldham on Saturday and, after tonight’s showdown against the third-placed Dons, entertain leaders Bristol City on Saturday before travelling to play-off hopefuls Doncaster on February 28.

However, rather than having any fears against sides from the opposite end of the table, Humes insists his players should relish the opportunity to test themselves.

“It’s a challenge,” he said.

“We’re playing big teams, but that’s what the players are here for.

“They want to play against that calibre of opposition and show how good they are.

“As a management team, we have to see how we cope with it.

“But ultimately, it’s down to the players on the pitch to see if they can carry out what we’re trying to do.”

For the full story and more U's news, see Tuesday's Daily Gazette.