The U's could be playing Athletic Bilbao in front of more than 5,000 supporters due to a change in procedure concerning the ramp-up matches at the new Weston Homes Community Stadium.

Colchester United are settling into their new home, on United Way, and are gearing up to receiving supporters ahead of the League One campaign.

It was anticipated that the club would have to hold two public ramp-up events, with reduced capacities, to make sure all systems and procedures are in full working order.

These events have to take place in order for the club to gain the necessary licences and safety certificates to hold Football League fixtures at full capacity.

With the progress of the build and fit-out, it has been decided that only one public event is needed and the friendly against Athletic Bilbao is that designated event to test the facilities.

That means that the event previously scheduled for Saturday July 26th will now not be taking place.

Internal testing will take place prior to the Bilbao fixture on August 4th and it is hoped that permission will be given to admit more than the 50% capacity that was expected prior to the latest developments.

Tickets will be going on sale in due course but the sales procedures have yet to be finalised and will be advertised on the club's official website and in the local press as soon as possible.