COLCHESTER United and their fans are preparing for a mouth-watering match against Manchester United after securing the draw in the Carabao Cup quarter finals.

The U’s will visit Old Trafford in December to play against the Premier League giants.

It will be the second time Colchester will have faced Manchester United in the League Cup.

It has been 35 years since the teams met in the competition where the Reds ran out 2-0 winners.

Fans are already making plans for the 500 mile round trip.

Jon Burns, Colchester United Supporters Association chairman, said: “Manchester United away is some reward for an excellent U’s cup campaign littered with terrific results and wonderful performances.

“It will be a night to remember.

“The CUSA will be running coaches for as many fans that need our help to get to Old Trafford and we’ll announce details via our website and social media just as soon as we have made our decisions.”

He added: “For Colchester United supporters, the early Christmas present everyone will want this year is a ticket for Old Trafford.

“It will be a special day and there will be lots of attention in the run up to it.

“It’s been a while since we’ve seen Colchester United play on the big stage.

“It’s going to be at one of the biggest venues in European – if not World – football.

“The pride the Colchester United fans will have in seeing their team walk out at Old Trafford against Manchester United will be incredible and it’s going to be a huge buzz for everyone.

While the Carabao Cup does not offer the riches of the FA Cup, it can still be a significant money-spinner and Colchester will hit the jackpot when they travel to Old Trafford.

They will benefit from money generated by gate receipts and television deals.

Unlike league games, the total sum collected from a Carabao Cup tie is split 45 per cent each way, regardless of where the fixture is played. The remaining ten per cent goes to the Football Association.

Burton Albion’s defeat to Manchester United at Old Trafford in the third round of last season’s competition earned the club a reported £500,000.

The club’s general manager, Tim Waddington, said: “We’re ecstatic – it’s exciting and I’m so pleased for everyone.

“We’ve had some proud moments in the club’s history and to be drawn against Manchester United at Old Trafford is wonderful.”