BEN Stevenson got to know Brandon Comley pretty well on and off the pitch when they were Colchester United team-mates.

So it’s no surprise that U’s midfielder Stevenson is looking forward to the prospect of pitting his wits against his pal when Bolton Wanderers visit the JobServe Community Stadium tomorrow.

Stevenson and Comley played plenty of games together in midfield last season for Colchester, as they made the League Two play-offs.

They also shared some magic moments in the Carabao Cup and Stevenson says they built up a good understanding, during their time together at the U’s.

Stevenson said: “I’ve got no bad words to say about Coms.

“I lived with him last year so I know a lot about him.

“I used to train with him and play with him so I know what he’s all about, if I come up against him.

“But it’ll be good to see him and I’m sure we’ll both be concentrating on winning the game.

“The more you get to know someone, the more comfortable you get around them and I think that shows on the pitch, because you build that chemistry with someone.

“He’s at Bolton now though and we just have to concentrate on ourselves and hopefully getting the three points.”

Colchester will be aiming to build on their creditable point at Bradford City on the opening day with another positive result tomorrow.

The U’s host a Bolton side who are looking to bounce back immediately, following their relegation from League One last season.

“It’s another big game,” said former Wolves and Coventry midfielder Stevenson.

“When you look at the fixture list, you look forward to the games against the bigger teams and Saturday is one of those.

“Bolton are a good side and a big club as well.

“They like to play and so do we so it should be a good footballing game and I’m looking forward to it.

“Bradford are a big club and it’s a hard place to go, with or without fans.

“We showed a different side to our game defensively.

“They put us under a bit of pressure but we all stuck together and really grew into the game.

“In the second half, we looked the better team and could have gone onto win so we can build on that, on Saturday.”

Stevenson was a regular in Colchester’s starting line-up last season, making 36 league and cup appearances.

The 23-year-old he can make a similar contribution for the U’s, this time around.

He added: “I just want success for the club and the team on the pitch.

“I’m enjoying playing; I love playing here and working under the gaffer.

“I like the way he likes to play and all of the lads have bought into it.

“For me, I just want to try and stay fit, play as many games as I can and contribute to the team as much as I can.”