Fans chief Jon Burns described Steve Whitton's exit as a 'sad but necessary step' for Colchester United.

The U's supporters association chairman told the Gazette: "Steve deserves a lot of credit for everything he's achieved at the club, both as a player and manager.

"But there's no denying the club is in a rut. Something needed to change in order to reignite that spark again.

"I wouldn't say I'm glad to see him go but I understand it was probably a necessary step."

Published Thursday, January 30, 2003

Brought to you by the Evening Gazette