Colchester part company with Joe Dunne

Colchester United have confirmed this morning on their official website the departure of manager Joe Dunne by mutual consent. 

Joe Dunne has left his post as Colchester manager following two years in charge of the League One side

Dunne leaves the Weston Homes Community Stadium following his side’s 3-1 defeat to Peterborough United on Saturday, leaving the U’s second-from-bottom in League One, having picked up just one point from their opening five matches.

The 41-year-old appeared over 150 times for Colchester during his playing career, before taking over the top job in September 2012.

He helped guide the U’s to safety in his first season in charge, before improving steadily to a 16th place finish last year, all whilst battling against huge financial cuts to the club’s budget.

Chairman Robbie Cowling said: ‘Joe has done a remarkable job manager for Colchester United over the past two seasons and he has been a remarkable servant for the club for many years.’

‘He is a Colchester United legend and I am grateful for the way he kept our club in League One during these challenging times. I wish him all the best for the future.’