HARRY Pell believes he will be preparing for one of the biggest moments of his career when he reports back for training with Colchester United.

The U's are planning to return to their Florence Park training ground in the coming days, in readiness for a potential play-off semi-final against Exeter City.

The play-offs are yet to ratified by the EFL and the FA, after League Two clubs voted to earlier this month end their season.

But with confirmation expected imminently, Colchester are already planning for individual socially-distanced training.

And midfielder Pell says competing in the play-offs will be an opportunity for them to 'finish what they have started, this season.

Pell said: “I’ve been told that it'll be intense when we go back but it has to be that way because we’ll be preparing to play in very important games, probably the most important of our careers.

“That’s how much the play-offs are worth – every player and member of staff will be looking at it like that.

“This will be one of the biggest moments in my football career.

“I want to win things and everyone wants to get promoted.

“I’m so hungry to get back and to get playing again - I’m chomping at the bit to get back.

“I respect players’ decisions but for me, there is no other choice other than to go back in.

“We’ve worked our backsides off this year and we owe it to ourselves to get back and to finish off what we’ve started.

“We have to finish it, just for the clarity."

Colchester have not played a competitive match since beating Carlisle United 3-0, on March 7.

They have been training as individuals during the coronavirus lockdown and Pell admits he cannot wait to see his team-mates again - even if it is initially from a distance.

He added: “Every one of the boys that I’ve spoken to can’t wait to finish what we’ve started.

“I know it’s been difficult for everyone during this period but it has been hard.

“As footballers, we’re in a routine – we used to knowing where to be, what to do and at what time and all of that has stopped.

“You keep yourself fit but that doesn’t replicate having that competitive edge that you would normally have, with training.

“It’ll be hard not to go and give the lads a cuddle – I think I’ll have to blow them a kiss instead!"