Colchester United stalwart Joe Dunne wants to be a manager in his own right within the next ten years.

And he would love the chance to take charge of the U’s some time in the future.

The popular Irishman (pictured below) has just completed a decade of service with the club, as both a player and coach.

Dunne enjoyed his brief spell in charge of Colchester last August, following the departure of Paul Lambert.

The 36-year-old is now working closely alongside boss Aidy Boothroyd and assistant manager John Ward, as the U’s challenge for promotion from Coca-Cola League One.

However, Dunne said he would love the opportunity to manage at senior level in the coming years.

Dunne told the Gazette: “In ten years time, I want to be a manager at some stage – I’d like to have a go at it.

“Times will change between now and then and it would have to be the right time.

“But the right thing to do would be ambitious and I’m sure the gaffer would be disappointed if I wasn’t.”

Dunne was a popular choice as Colchester’s caretaker manager earlier in the season.

Working alongside close friend Paul Clark he helped to steady the ship at a turbulent time, following the surprise exit of Lambert and his assistants, Ian Culverhouse and Gary Karsa.

“The experience I had being a caretaker manager was amazing,” added Dunne.

“I don’t think people know how fragile we were during that time.

“We could have folded – the captain Dean Hammond left and one or two others wanted to go.

“But we got through it and we remained competitive.”

Meanwhile, U’s boss Boothroyd will make changes to his side for the vital clash with promotion rivals Norwich City on Saturday.

It will be the first time Colchester have played since their 7-0 FA Cup defeat at Preston North End, following the postponement of their game at Yeovil Town because of the cold snap.

“We want to get back to playing and to get back to winning, which we’ve been ok at so far this season,” said Boothroyd, who has completed the signing of striker Ian Henderson.

“Anyone can talk but it’s about the doing that counts for me.

“It will not be the same team of players, because changes will need to be made.”

l Colchester’s Essex Senior Cup quarter-final against Maldon Town has been rearranged for Tuesday, January 19 at the Weston Homes Community Stadium, kick-off 7.30pm.