Wilson has made 19 appearances for Colchester

Colchester United full-back Brian Wilson will be out for up to eight weeks with an ankle injury.

The 27-year-old, who joined from Bristol City last summer, tore ligaments in a practice game.

"It looks like a six to eight week job for Brian unfortunately," U's boss John Ward told BBC Essex.

"It's a shame for Brian because he's been playing extremely well and has been one of the most consistent players in the team."

Wilson has been Ward's first choice right-back this season, although he was sidelined for four weeks in September because of an earlier ankle injury.

John White, who has featured ten times this term, will step into the back four for Saturday's visit of Charlton.

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"John's a good player. He's been unfortunate not to have been in the side," Ward added.

"I think people can see why I brought Brian into the club but John's a really top pro, he's been spot on with his preparation and for me it's a straightforward decision."

Meanwhile the U's manager says he is in talks with Reading about extending the loan spell of striker David Mooney.

The 26-year-old has scored nine times in 22 games for Colchester, but Ward is not confident he can keep hold of the Irishman, who is set to return to the Madejski after the match against Leyton Orient on 3 January.

"I've spoken to Reading about that, I think at this moment in time they may want to take him back," he said.

"I'm not giving up on it yet, I'm still in the throes of that one."

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