BEN Coker has reacted positively to his departure from Colchester United.

Former Bury Town left-back Coker has left the Essex club after having had his contract terminated by mutual consent.

The 23-year-old follows in the footsteps of Ian Henderson, Michael Rose, Carl Pentney and Tom Bender, who have all been released by the U’s over the last week, as manager Joe Dunne continues with his rebuilding process.

“I look on it as an exciting challenge that lies ahead for me,” insisted Coker tonight.

“I’d like to stay in the Football League, and being released now gives me the best chance to find a new club.

“It will give me a head-start on all those footballers who will be released in the summer.

“I’ll be keeping myself fit, speaking to my agent, and trying to get fixed up with another club very soon.

“This season has been hard, because I haven’t been playing regular football,” added Coker.

Coker made 45 senior appearances for the U’s, since signing from Ryman League Premier side Bury Town in the summer of 2010.

But he has only played two games this season.