COLCHESTER United manager John Wards says he is a fan of Hartelpool United counterpart Mick Wadsworth.

The well-travelled Yorskhireman, now caretaker boss at Hartlepool United, returns to one of his many former clubs tomorrow for a League One match at The Weston Homes Community Stadium.

And the 60-year-old could receive a hot reception, with many U’s fans still unhappy at the manner of his short stay at the Essex club over a decade ago.

Wadsworth left Scarborough to replace Steve Wignall as U’s boss in January 1999 and just about kept them in the third tier of English football by finishing two points above the drop zone that season.

He then angered U’s fans by resigning just five games into the new campaign to become part of Steve Coppell’s coaching staff at Crystal Palace.

“He’s popular with me,” said Ward, who at 59 is just five months Wadsworth’s junior.

“Mick is a good guy who knows his football and I consider him a good friend of mine.

“I’ve not been in contact with him for the last few years but I’m looking forward to meeting up with him.

“That said, I hope he has a miserable day, but there will be a drink waiting for him after the game.”

Hartlepool are currently 14th in League One following their superb 3-1 home win over table-toppers Brighton last weekend. The sixth-place U’s are currently eight spots and six points ahead of the north east club in the table.

– For full match preview, see tomorrow’s EADT.