Robbie Cowling has vowed to keep Colchester United afloat during the credit crunch.

And the U’s chairman thinks they may even be able to benefit from the situation.

Football League chairman Lord Mawhinney fears clubs might face a ‘reality check’ at the end of the season.

He has called for them to adjust to the recession – or risk going into administration like Coca-Cola League Two side, Darlington.

Cowling admitted that the current financial situation has sometimes been ‘painful’ for the U’s.

But the Colchester supremo and Jobserve owner is confident the club can cope with what is to come. He told the Gazette: “We will be able to manage – I have to make sure of that.

“I will have to put my hand in my pocket and support us – whatever happens in the future.

“If I didn’t do that, then the consequences would be disastrous.

“All businesses are being affected by it but we’re in a good position.

“We are affected like everyone else and we will lose money.

“It’s painful at times.

“But sometimes good can come from bad.

“There are a lot of clubs affected and there are opportunities for Colchester United to do better, in the whole situation.”