COLCHESTER United have named John Ward as their new manager.

COLCHESTER United have named John Ward as their new manager.

The 59-year-old has been promoted from the assistant manager’s position having served as the club’s No.2 under Aidy Boothroyd last season, the latter having recently left to join Championship club Coventry City.

Ward – who has previously managed Bristol Rovers, Bristol City, Carlisle and Cheltenham – will be assisted by loyal U’s servant Joe Dunne, who has been promoted from the role of first team coach.

“I thoroughly enjoyed my time with Aidy (Boothroyd) but he was always aware I wanted to manage again and now I’ve got that opportunity,” said Ward, who becomes the club’s third manager in as many seasons following the short reigns Paul Lambert and Boothroyd respectively.

“It’s a progressive football club. We are trying to build and develop and hopefully our partnership (with chairman Robbie Cowling) will last a bit longer than the last couple.

“It really excites me to think I’ve got another opportunity to further my career and see if we can get promotion.”

– Full story in tomorrow’s EADT.