Colchester United have named John Ward as their new assistant manager.

Aidy Boothroyd has brought in the experienced former Cheltenham Town manager as his number two at the U's.

Ward, 58, had been working as assistant manager to boss Gary Ablett at their Coca-Cola League One rivals, Stockport County.

He was in charge of Carlisle United last season, before leaving the Cumbrians last November.

One of Ward's final games in charge of Carlisle was their 5-0 defeat at the hands of the U's, last October.

Ward, who has also managed York City, Bristol Rovers and Bristol City, also worked alongside Graham Taylor at both Watford and Aston Villa.

For more news on the U's and a full preview of their game at Southampton tomorrow, see today's Gazette.