Tony Humes has ruled out a Colchester United return for midfielder Anthony Wordsworth this summer.

Wordsworth, who made nearly 200 appearances during his time at the U’s, will be a free agent this summer with his Ipswich Town contract set to expire.

The 26-year-old is set to be available on a free transfer and Humes is on the lookout for experienced players.

But the U’s boss says he will not be making a move for the playmaker, who spent three months on loan at Crawley Town this season.

Humes said: “I don’t think Anthony will be one that we’d be looking at.

“He’s a good player who did well for Colchester during his time here but we’re looking at something slightly different.”

While a Wordsworth return looks unlikely, Colchester could be interested in signing another former Ipswich player. Elliott Hewitt is a free agent this summer after being released by the Suffolk club and is available on a free transfer.

Hewitt made 24 appearances for the U’s this season, during his loan spell at the Weston Homes Community Stadium.

And although Colchester have already signed right-back Richard Brindley on a two-year deal, a move for Hewitt could also be on the cards.

Humes could bring at least half a dozen new players in this summer, in readiness for the 2015-16 campaign.

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