COLCHESTER United are hoping to be in a position to name their new boss this week.

And interim head coach Steve Ball admits the sooner a new man is appointed the better, following their dismal 1-0 home defeat to fellow strugglers Rochdale.

Colchester's second successive defeat leaves them a point above the League Two relegation zone, following a run of six league matches without a win.

The U's would ideally like someone in place before they visit Johnnie Jackson's AFC Wimbledon, on Saturday.

Colchester technical director Ball, who took charge of the U's for the Dale game, says it is important Wayne Brown's successor is named soon.

Wealdstone boss Stuart Maynard is the favourite with bookies Bet Victor for the role, with former Crewe manager David Artell and Boreham Wood's Luke Garrard also linked.

Ball said: "There's been a real strong process going on.

"There's been conversations for sure and I know for sure there's been interest, with over 100 applicants.

"We have to find the right man and the chairman and the board are doing that now.

"When will he be in? Let's hope it's soon for everybody and we can all settle down again.

Gazette: STEVE BRADINGSTEVE BRADING (Image: STEVE BRADING)

"I'm just trying to help the club the best I can and until that new appointment is made, we'll just keep doing that.

“We’re really early into a season and the games have panned out where the first goal is crucial.

“I think it’s a competitive squad for a new manager coming in.

“We’ve got a really deep squad and there are options and quality in all areas for the new manager that comes in.

“He’ll have some good players to pick from and it’s just the matter of getting the right formula, to start winning games.”

Gazette: STEVE BRADINGSTEVE BRADING (Image: STEVE BRADING)

Devante Rodney’s first-half penalty gave Rochdale victory against Colchester, for whom Freddie Sears’ stoppage-time penalty was saved by keeper Richard O’Donnell.

Dan Chesters (pictured above) was handed his first-ever league start for the U's in their 1-0 defeat, at the JobServe Community Stadium.

The on-loan West Ham United youngster impressed in a right-sided role against Dale.

"I thought he was very bright," added Ball.

"Dan has come into the group and this was his first start.

"I thought he made an impact and for the new manager that comes in, Dan I'm sure will be a really strong option off that right side.

"I think if we can get him and Bez (Lubala) and people like that on the ball in wide areas, we can definitely hurt teams this season."