COLCHESTER United have dismissed Matty Etherington as head coach after just six weeks in permanent charge.

The U’s are looking for a new boss for the second time this season after Etherington paid the price for a slump in form which has seen the club lose eight of their last nine matches.

Etherington’s final match in charge proved to be today's 1-0 home defeat to Gillingham.

 The defeat left the U’s third from bottom in the League Two table, five points above the relegation zone.

 

In a statement, Colchester United said: 'Colchester United and Matty Etherington part company.

'Following this afternoon’s defeat against Gillingham, Colchester United have relieved Matty Etherington of his duties as Head Coach.

'The club would like to thank Matty for his time in charge of the first team.

'No further comment will be made at this time.'

Etherington was given the Colchester head coach role on a permanent basis on November 16, having impressed in his three-week stint in temporary charge.

The former West Ham United and Spurs winger stepped up from his role as the club’s under-21 boss to replace Ben Garner in October and helped the U’s pick up ten points from four league fixtures.

Gazette: Matty Etherington

But since taking permanent charge, Colchester have managed to register only three points from a possible 27.

And U’s chairman Robbie Cowling has now decided to take action.

Speaking after today's defeat to Gillingham, Etherington said: "I'm fully aware of the situation we're in and the run of results that we're on.

"I won't shirk away from anyone and I'll keep doing the job to the best of my ability.

"The results haven't been good enough and I get that.

"I believe in working a certain way and I believe in my principles as a person and I'll keep being me."