Jaden Williams expects to return to Colchester United's League Two side for their match against Chesterfield next Tuesday. The 22-year-old striker has one game of a three-match ban remaining following his red card against Cheltenham Town last month.

Williams said he has missed being involved, particularly at the JobServe Community Stadium. "I’ve missed playing, especially at home as well," he told the club's media. "It’s felt like a long time, because there’s been a lot of Saturday games." He views the suspension as a learning experience in his football journey, acknowledging the unpredictable nature of the sport.

Williams featured in Colchester's BBC Essex Senior Cup victory over Maldon & Tiptree on Tuesday night, scoring in the process. He described the run-out as a positive step. "It was really good to be back out there and with a goal, too," Williams said. He emphasised taking every opportunity, stating that he approaches each game with a smile and a commitment to performing to the best of his ability. The former Tottenham Hotspur academy product believes he has worked hard during his absence and made improvements, which he aims to translate into first-team action.

The suspension stemmed from a red card shown for a foul on Cheltenham defender Robbie Cundy during a 1-1 draw at the end of September. Williams admitted the dismissal was a shock, being the first of his career. He has reflected on the incident, choosing to focus on the positives and using the enforced break to push himself away from the pitch. His return comes as Colchester seek to improve a league position of 19th, having taken 10 points from their opening nine games. Their recent form shows no wins in five, with three draws and two defeats.

The team faces Exeter City at home this weekend before the anticipated trip to Chesterfield. Williams is determined to be ready. "I’ll keep working hard and hopefully, I’m there against Chesterfield next Tuesday and see where it goes from there," he added. Fans can check the full schedule, including the Chesterfield fixture, on our fixtures page and see how the squad is shaping up via the squad list. His comeback could provide a timely boost for a side looking to climb the standings.

This story first appeared at BBC Essex