Reaction: Gunn & Izzet On First Game

Colchester`s Kem Izzet and Norwich City manager Barry Gunn have been speaking today about the prospect of an East Anglian derby to start with in August.

"We`re delighted to be starting with a local derby against Colchester United at Carrow Road. Hopefully it will be a sell-out crowd at Carrow Road and the fans can roar us on to a winning start. A good start is vital," said Gunn, whose team is expected to challenge for an instant return to the Championship.

Gunn might have been talking about Colchester`s own situation when he said: "Our support home and away is going to be a crucial factor for us this season. Our home form needs to improve dramatically and a buzzing Carrow Road will definitely increase the chances of that happening."

United are very conscious that they need to improve the atmosphere at the Weston Homes Community Stadium and have moved fans to behind the goal to make it happen.

Meanwhile, United`s long-serving, Kem Izzet, midfielder remained cautiously optimistic about the tie.

He told the official site today: "We are obviously aiming for promotion back into the Championship this season and it's great to test ourselves against one of the so-called favourites who have come down to League One.

'We went up to Carrow Road during pre-season a year ago and proved we can match them, and despite it being a difficult first game I'm sure we can get a positive result up there."

Colchester also play Southend in other derby games next season, with the trip to Roots Hall coming on Boxing Day and the return game at home in February.


To read about why Colchester are so often not given a home fixture to start the season, click here.


Can the U's get an away win on day one of 2009/10?

Let us know with a comment below, or comment on this article in the forum. Not yet a member? Don't panic, click on the banner below to join in.

We want to know YOUR thoughts...


VITAL COLCHESTER; YOUR VOICE, YOUR CHOICE!


VITAL COLCHESTER IS 100% UNOFFICIAL - FOR THE FANS, BY THE FANS!

Get my banner code or design your own banner

---

Vital F1 Prediction League - Join now for Spain

For the very latest League One odds

Click here to join in the debate on the club forum.