COLCHESTER United legend Kem Izzet feels ready to climb the managerial ladder after parting company with Stanway Rovers.

The former midfielder left the Essex Senior League outfit over the weekend, having taken the reins in May 2017.

He led The Hawthorns club to an eighth-place finish in the Thurlow Nunn League last season, alongside fellow U’s legend Karl Duguid.

But having parted ways, he is now excited to see what the future brings and feels ready to cut his teeth at a higher level.

"I definitely feel ready to step up and hope an opportunity presents itself as soon as possible," said Izzet, who made more than 400 appearances for the U’s between 2001 to 2013 and then spent three years with Suffolk side Needham Market.

"In some ways the uncertainly is daunting, because this is the first time I've been out of football.

"Even after leaving Colchester I went straight to Needham.

"But it's also exciting and I'm really looking forward to my next challenge, wherever that may be.

"Ideally, I'd love to manage at this level or above but I'd also be willing to coach at a higher level.

"At least that would allow me to get a foot in the door somewhere and give me the opportunity to learn from another manager.

"You can always learn things in life and football and there are positives and negatives to take from any experience, even if it's learning how not to do things."

Izzet said he was disappointed to leave Stanway but hopes they do well in a different division next season, having been moved sideways by the FA into the Essex Senior League.

"It's disappointing in a way because I hoped to finish what I started," said the 37-year-old.

"With the experience the players gained last season, I really felt we could push on and challenge for honours next year.

"Even in a different league, I still felt confident we'd go close and be up there.

"But it's not to be and I wish everyone at the club the very best for the future.

"I'd also like to thank all the players and staff for their support over the last season."

Izzet still keeps a keen eye on events at the JobServe Community Stadium and was pleased to see experienced striker Frank Nouble join on Friday.

"It certainly bodes well and I like the fact they've signed a couple of bigger lads, like Frank and Harry (Pell)," he said.

"Colchester have a few smaller, more lightweight players so these additions will give them physicality and more of a focal point.

"You need a mix and the lower down you go, the more physical it gets.

"It's great news that they've kept Luke Prosser, too.

"He brings quality and experience to the side and will anchor the defence."