COLCHESTER United under-18s lead coach David Wright has left the club to take on the same role at Championship side Norwich City.

The former defender, who has also been assistant manager and caretaker boss during his time with the club, started his new role on Tuesday.

Colchester Director of Football Tony Humes said: "We would like to thank David for all that he has done at the football club.

"He has helped us set things up within the academy and we wish him well with the next step in his career.

"Liam Bailey will take the under-18s in the meantime, supported by the likes of Jon De Souza and Richard Hall.

"We are fortunate to have some excellent coaches within the academy at the moment and this will allow us to take our time to make sure we get the right person in to replace David in the coming weeks.

"We have already had a number of applications for the role, so we will make a decision in due course."