COLCHESTER United chairman Robbie Cowling, who revealed in today’s ‘East Anglian Daily Times newspaper’ that Joe Dunne would stay as U’s boss, has tonight confirmed his support for the Dubliner.

The U’s are currently on a club record run of nine straight defeats, slipping into the relegation zone following Saturday’s 2-1 home defeat to Scunthorpe.

But U’s owner and chairman, Cowling, has reiterated his support for Dunne, with other new players set to be recruited this week.

Keeper Sam Walker was signed on loan from Chelsea earlier today, while striker Jabo Ibehre should be another to move to the Essex club, from MK Dons.

In a statement issued by the U’s this evening, Cowling said: “Joe has been at Colchester United for a long time, cares passionately for the club and only wants what is best for it.

“Therefore, following a run of defeats it was only natural for him to consider alternative solutions, including his own job.

“However, I still have every confidence in Joe’s ability to turn the situation around and when we spoke after the game, it wasn’t long before our conversation turned around to how we move forward and lift Colchester United out of the bottom four.

“Fans can expect two or three new signings this week before we go to Hartlepool on Saturday with even more determination to reward our loyal fans for their support and to get winning again,” added Cowling.