Tony Humes insists his Colchester United players will head into their home game with Bradford City in upbeat mood, despite the manner of their midweek defeat against Sheffield United.

The U’s are hoping to get the Blades setback out of their system tomorrow, after surrendering a two-goal lead to lose 3-2 on Tuesday night.

Humes admitted there were “a few sad faces” when the players returned to training yesterday morning, following the defeat.

But the U’s boss insists both he and his squad are ready to move on from the disappointment, ahead of the visit of Phil Parkinson’s Bantams.

Humes said: “The staff are upbeat and we expect the players to be.

“The performance was so positive and we have to remain in that frame of mind.

“The result was disappointing for everyone but for 82 minutes, we were very good.

“That’s what we’ve got to remain positive on and take that in Saturday’s game.

Humes has praised striker Freddie Sears for his eye-catching performances, over recent games.

The former West Ham United striker has led the line impressively for the U’s in the absence of Jabo Ibehre, scoring three times in their last four matches.

Sears is hopeful of shrugging off a back problem to face Bradford, after sitting out training as a precaution yesterday.

“I can’t praise Freddie enough for what we’ve asked him to do,” added Humes.

“His performances have been very good and it’s up to him to keep playing that way.

“Hopefully, we’ll see more from him and I hope we haven’t seen the best from him yet.”

For a three-page preview of the U's game against Bradford City, see Friday's Daily Gazette.