A week of dramatic twists and turns ended for Colchester United with the news that midfielder David Perkins has handed in a transfer request.

The former Rochdale midfielder came on in the second half of the U's 2-1 defeat at MK Dons and within minutes of the final whistle, caretaker manager Joe Dunne confirmed that Perkins had asked to be placed on the list.

Perkins made his request on Friday evening and Dunne said it had ended a torrid week that had seen the club lose their manager Paul Lambert to Norwich City and captain Dean Hammond to Southampton.

Dunne said: "As it this week hasn't been stressful enough, David Perkins has handed in a transfer request.

"He feels he should be playing games and I understand that.

"He feels he needs a fresh start.

"I have spoken to him and we should not criticise him for it as he feels it is a move that he needs."

See Monday's Gazette for more reaction.