LUKE Garrard has emerged as a front-runner to take over as Colchester United's new head coach, according to bookmakers.

The highly-rated Boreham Wood boss has been installed 2/1 favourite by Bet Victor to succeed Wayne Brown in the hot seat, at the JobServe Community Stadium.

Garrard, who celebrates his 37th birthday on Thursday, last night emerged as a clear favourite with the bookmakers to take over at Colchester.

Garrard has made a big impact at Boreham Wood, since taking charge there in October, 2015.

The Barnet-born manager has twice led them to the National League play-offs and they lost 2-1 to Tranmere Rovers in the final at Wembley, in 2018.

Garrard, who signed a new three-year contract with Boreham Wood in May, has also proved his worth as a manager in the FA Cup, over recent years.

In the 2017/18 season, he led the Hertfordshire club to a notable first-round win over Blackpool, the club's first-ever cup win over Football League opposition.

And last season, Boreham Wood made national headlines after Garrard led them to the fifth round when they lost 2-0 at Premier League club Everton, having beaten AFC Wimbledon and Bournemouth in previous rounds.

Garrard had been a player at Boreham Wood, prior to taking over as their manager where he succeeded former Colchester favourite Ian Allison in the hot seat.

It meant he became the youngest manager in all five top divisions.

The former Spurs youngster also played for the likes of AFC Wimbledon, Swindon Town and Bishop's Stortford, before going into coaching.

Boreham Wood currently lie fifth in the National League table after nine games, having won five, drawn three and lost only one of their opening fixtures.

Colchester are on the lookout for a new head coach after dismissing Wayne Brown, on Sunday.

The U's lie fourth from bottom in League Two, after recording just one win in their opening nine games in League Two.

Former Crewe Alexandra boss David Artell is currently second favourite at 5/1, while ex-U's first-team advisor Paul Tisdale have also been linked with the vacant role.