JON De Souza has parted company with Colchester United.

The Gazette understands that the U's Director of Performance is no longer at the club and that his contract has been terminated.

De Souza had been at Colchester since 2016, having initially joined them as academy manager.

He has been the U's Director of Performance for nearly three years, having taken over in the role in May, 2019 and listed as a Technical Director, at the League Two club.

Colchester chairman Robbie Cowling said at the time: "I felt that the club needed a department that would concentrate solely on improving the performances of our teams, players and staff.

"Sport has moved on so far in recent years and those teams that have invested in modern methods to enhance their performances have been rewarded with amazing returns.

"Jon has a Sports Science degree, a Business Masters degree, has coached at first team level and he has done a great job for Colchester United since he joined as Academy Manager three years ago.

"Jon is also passionate about what we are doing at Colchester United."

Gazette:

De Souza was given the task of heading up a department focused on improving the performances of the U's teams, players and staff.

But the former Brentford and Luton Town coach has come under fire from some supporters, following two successive seasons of struggle for the club in League Two.

And De Souza, who has been working in professional football for the past 17 years, is now moving onto pastures new.

Speaking to the Gazette last summer, De Souza admitted he was disappointed with the way the 2020-21 season had gone, for Colchester.

“I take responsibility for what’s happened this season and I was very reflective during it – I’ve learnt a lot about myself," he said.

“I care about the club deeply and I didn’t want it to be in a position where it ended up going out of the league.

“We’re fully aware of where we think we failed and where we feel we need to get better, both on and off the pitch and I’d like to think that a lot of those things are starting to be addressed already.”