Colchester will be without influential defender Brian Wilson for the clash with Charlton.
Right-back Wilson will be sidelined for up to eight weeks after suffering ankle ligament damage in training.
Magnus Okuonghae's long-term ankle injury is another concern and the Nigerian defender will have to see a specialist.
Midfielder John-Joe O'Toole and defender Morten Knudsen will not return to the side until the latter part of January as they recover from knee injuries.
Striker Steven Gillespie (thigh) and midfielder Simon Hackney (back) are close to a return to full fitness and could be among the substitutes.
The U's can push for a play-off place with a win over the Addicks and could mathematically reach third place.
Charlton will be without Akpo Sodje.
The striker sustained a shoulder injury against Walsall and will not be part of the squad for another two weeks.
Striker Joe Anyinsah has been plagued by spinal injuries since joining from Carlisle and withdrew from Wednesday's 1-1 draw with Brighton. The 26-year-old is receiving specialist attention but may still have a role to play in the squad.
Christian Dailly returned to the defence for the trip to the Withdean Stadium after missing five weeks with a fractured eyesocket and is likely to continue alongside Gary Doherty.
Leading scorer Johnnie Jackson scored from the penalty spot against Gus Poyet's side and if the midfielder can add to his eight goals the Addicks could move into the automatic promotion places.
