Colchester United defender Sean Raggett knows the significance of the televised Carabao Cup first-round tie against Southampton, a team he has a history with from his time at Portsmouth. "To start off with a tie against Southampton is going to be a big challenge but one everyone is really looking forward to," said Raggett. The match will be a chance for Colchester to showcase themselves against Championship opposition and to put younger players on a national stage. "It's on TV and it's good exposure for Colchester United, especially for the younger players – it's a good chance to show what you're about and the senior lads too, of course," said Raggett. Colchester United's next fixture is against Gillingham on February 27, 2027, where they will look to build on the momentum from this tie.