COLCHESTER United FC's owner, Robbie Cowling hit back at claims that the U's “lacked ambition” by issuing a statement on behalf of the board and management yesterday.

By Carl Marston

COLCHESTER United FC's owner, Robbie Cowling hit back at claims that the U's “lacked ambition” by issuing a statement on behalf of the board and management yesterday.

Star striker Jamie Cureton, on requesting a transfer this week, claimed that “my ambitions are not matched by the club.”

Cowling hit back, releasing a statement that said: “We know that we have to work within certain limitations at our current home of Layer Road and, whilst aiming to progress, we still have to retain some economic sense within that.

“There have been a number of clubs who have been foolhardy in their planning and many have fallen by the wayside as a result.

“We would also reiterate that whilst things appear to be quiet, it is a hugely busy time at Layer Road.

“Firstly, in light of the news of Jamie Cureton's transfer request, we would confirm that we have considered that request and will be turning it down.

“We are not going to let him go elsewhere as we feel he forms a part of our plans to take this club forward into the future. To have accepted that request would, in our eyes, have lacked ambition.

“Secondly, in response to an article concerning Chris Iwelumo's move to Charlton, we did our very best to keep Chris and offered him terms that were a massive improvement on his existing contract, which had already been improved significantly when we were promoted.

“Of course it is currently difficult for us to compete on wages with a club that attracts 25,000 fans and has a £10m parachute payment.

“However, that won't always be the case and we can confirm that, in terms of money to spend, we have made available the best budget in the club's history, both in terms of transfer fees and for paying far better wages.

“Whilst our current stadium provides constraints on how far we can go, the future remains bright - we have a new stadium on the agenda and, in time with continued success, we will be looking to expand that new facility.

“Furthermore, we are currently a long way down the line in terms of securing improved training facilities for this football club. We are considering a number of potential locations for a new facility and we are optimistic that we will be making a decision on this soon.

“Finally, to confirm: We are ambitious, realistic and aspiring to do the very best for Colchester United.”