COLCHESTER United have dismissed Wayne Brown as head coach following a poor start to the season.

The U's are now looking for a new boss after parting company with Brown, following yesterday's 1-0 home defeat to Grimsby Town.

The defeat leaves Colchester fourth from bottom in the League Two table and they have taken just two points from a possible 15, in their last five games.

The U’s have scored just seven times in their opening nine games - only four teams have hit the net on fewer occasions, in League Two.

Chairman Robbie Cowling said he has decided to act 'swiftly and decisively', in dismissing Brown.

In a statement, Mr Cowling said: "I and everyone associated with the club will always be extremely grateful to Wayne Brown for the job he did last season when he lifted the club from being in the midst of a relegation battle to finishing a very respectable 15th place.

"However, we have decided to act swiftly and decisively following the team’s poor start to this season.

"I accept that many of you will feel I have made a harsh decision, given Wayne’s success last season and given that he has been such an exceptional servant to Colchester United over the years as a player, coach and manager.

"On a personal level, I feel that too but as the club’s Chairman I have a duty to make what I believe are the right decisions for the long-term future of Colchester United.

"We thank Wayne for the hard work and attention to detail he has shown in not only his role as Head Coach, but in all his roles here at the club.

"Robbie Cowling."