Colchester United boss Joe Dunne revealed that he was preparing to substitute Sanchez Watt, just before the ex-Arsenal winger was sent off during last night’s goalless draw at a wet and windy Swindon.

Watt was shown a red card, on his 23rd birthday and on Valentine’s Day, for violent conduct following an altercation with Robins defender Nathan Thompson.

Dunne was very satisfied with his side’s backs-to-the-wall point in a 0-0 stalemate, achieved in difficult conditions at a wind-buffeted County Ground, especially as his side had to play the final 20 minutes with just 10 men.

But the Irishman was disappointed and frustrated with Watt’s dismissal.

“We were actually getting Gavin (Massey) ready in the moment that Sanchez got sent off,” admitted Dunne.

“Unfortunately, that’s football.

“But I don’t want to see too many more of that.

“I don’t want my players to be doing that on a football pitch,” added Dunne.

The U’s boss also revealed that striker Jabo Ibehre was missing from the 18-man squad due to illness.

“Jabo got an illness yesterday (Thursday),” continued Dunne.

“He got on the bus, but he wasn’t right and he wasn’t feeling very well, so we left him at home to rest up.”