Guy: I Will Seize Starting Chance

Colchester United striker Jamie Guy, who is now one of only two recognised first-team strikers at the Essex club, is confident that he can size an opportunity to break into the first XI following the departure this week of Chris Iwelumo to Charlton.

The U`s man, 19, made a decent impact last season, although mostly from the substitutes bench, and is the latest in a long line of graduates from the club`s famed youth academy.

In yesterday`s Costal Gazette, Guy explained: "Hopefully with Chris leaving the club I`ll get a chance to play more regular first team football."

Despite making just two starts last season, Guy endeared himself to U`s fans, scoring three goals overall and making a significant breakthrough by also appearing 35 times as a substitute last term.

Appreciated by U`s fans for the directness of his play, the Barking-born forward spoke plainly in the media yesterday. "I know the manager will probably go out and bring in a new player to replace Chris.

"But competition for places is healthy and as the old saying goes, when one door closes another opens for somebody else."

Guy, who had previously been on loan at non-league Cambridge, Gravesend, Wivenhoe Town and Tiptree, stated he was happy with his progress this season, which looks justified given that he was playing well at Championship level.

As he reflected: "It was frustrating spending so much time on the bench last season, but it`s equally rewarding for me to be involved as much as I have."

Words: Vital Colchester
Quotes: Costal Gazette

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