It is perhaps hardly surprising given the nature of football that comparisons between former Colchester United skipper Chris Porter and his replacement, Mikael Mandron, have been pretty common place over the last few months.

After all, they are both six-foot-plus number nines, who are good in the air and like to score goals.

But in truth, such judgements are pretty futile, especially given the fact that while Porter would probably be the first to admit that he is approaching the twilight of an impressive professional career, Mandron is still pretty much starting out.

Porter’s experience is there for all to see.

The 33-year-old was without doubt a splendid servant in the games he played for Colchester, many as club captain, in the two-and-a-half years he spent at the Weston Homes Community Stadium.

But it would be harsh to compare him with the emerging Mandron, who at 23 years of age is still learning the game.

Indeed, it is worth remembering that the Frenchman has fewer than 40 league appearances under his belt.

Nevertheless, Mandron has played more times for Colchester than any other outfield player so far this season, a firm indication of the esteem in which U’s head coach John McGreal holds the forward and reflected in the loyalty he has shown.

“I think the fans and even his own team-mates now are seeing what type of performances he can put in for us,” said the U’s head coach, after Mandron’s two goals had helped his side see off Crewe Alexandra.

On a day when all eyes had inevitably been on Porter returning to town for the first time since leaving Colchester in the summer, it was his opposite number who stole all of the headlines in the U's 3-1 win.

It has taken some Colchester fans some time to accept the former Wigan Athletic forward and what he brings to the team; some are still not convinced.

But Mandron showed predatory instinct for both of his goals against Crewe and now has six goals to his name this season; only 12 players have scored more goals in League Two so far.

In Porter, it is clear that Mandron has had a hard act to follow.

But after his excellent brace at the weekend, perhaps now he is finally being accepted as a player in his own right.