Beesley to make up for lost time

Beelsey has been with the U's since January 2008

Cambridge United striker Mark Beesley wants to ensure he does not regret missing the end of last season to undergo surgery.

Beesley opted to correct a long standing hip problem back in March in order to be ready for pre-season.

The 28-year-old told BBC Radio Cambridgeshre: "I don't like missing games at the best of times and there were some really big games.

"But it's gone now, it's done and hopefully it will pay off."

U's boss Gary Brabin has plenty of options up front going into the new season with Beesley, Chris Holroyd, Lee Phillips and Danny Crow each competing for a place in the side.

Beesley is a little behind the rest of the squad in terms of overall fitness, but should be ready to play a part come August.

"We haven't done much in the transfer (market), but we've got four forwards who know each other well and should prove a decent mixture," Brabin said.

The U's are now looking to sell players before they can buy any more, with Jon Challinor and Courtney Pitt both on the transfer list.

Meanwhile, squad numbers have been allocated for the new season with several changes despite the lack of new arrivals.

Chris Holroyd takes over the number nine shirt vacated by Scott Rendell, whilst while Jai Reason is now 14.

Josh Coulson moves up to number four with Rory McAuley taking his place at 12.

The transfer-listed pair of Pitt and Challinor pick up 25 and 26 respectively with their old shirts at 10 and 11 going to Danny Crow and Robbie Willmott.