PAUL Tisdale says he is looking forward to the challenge of helping Colchester United stay in League Two.

The former Exeter City and MK Dons boss has linked up with the U’s in the advisory role for the final eight games of the season, as they battle to preserve their League Two status.

Tisdale will be helping new head coach Hayden Mullins and the experienced boss says he is looking forward to it.

He told the club’s iFollow service: “I spoke to Robbie (Cowling) this week and he asked would I be prepared – and would I like the challenge of the last eight games of Colchester United in an advisory role for Hayden, to support him.

“I was interested; it’s a very good football club, one that I’ve admired from a distance in the past.

“There are five weeks to go and eight games and I’m very much looking forward to helping Hayden deliver clear messages to the players and a match strategy to try and get the points required to stay in League Two.”

Tisdale linked up with Mullins at Florence Park and will be looking to help them secure a vital win at Bolton Wanderers today (kick-off 1pm).

“I’ve been in football now for well over 30 years and I’ve had a lot of games as a manager,” said Tisdale.

“You don’t lose your interest and it’s a challenge.

“As a sportsman and as a coach, you see the upside of that.

“I’m enthused about what I’ve seen so far.

“It’s a tough ask for the club and we’re in a very sticky situation.

“We have some very important games coming thick and fast and with a young, talented coach in Hayden Mullins, I’m very much looking forward to optimising his ability to get the best out of the players and keep the messages clear to the players and get the very best out of them.”