Jim Smith led his side to promotion to the Third Division in his first full season in charge, finishing in third position, five points behind winners Peterborough United.

Manager Jim Smith brought in Watford pair Mike Walker and Mick Packer during the summer break and also spent £8,000 on forward Paul Aimson from Bournemouth.

Bobby Svarc's goalscoring waned, and Smith brought in Gary Moore on loan from Southend United.

He scored seven goals in the U's eleven remaining games as Colchester sealed a promotion place.

[29] Players making their first-team Colchester United debut in a fully competitive match.