U’S legend Tony English has urged fans to be patient in the club’s pursuit of success.

But he admitted he could understand their frustrations after seeing the U’s stutter past non-league minnows Swindon Supermarine on Saturday.

Former Colchester United favourite English - who led the U’s to a glorious Conference and FA Trophy double in 1992 - was at the Weston Homes Community Stadium for their narrow FA Cup second-round win over Marine.

Some supporters booed Colchester off at the final whistle, following a below-par display.

English admitted he understood the crowd’s frustration at seeing their team struggle to overcome their Zamaretto League opponents.

However, the 44-year-old is keen to see U’s fans get behind their side, as John Ward’s team strive to make inroads in npower League One.

English told the Gazette: “The fans have to be patient but they pay their money and they’re entitled to their views.

“The club have set their standards high this season, with the way they’ve been playing.

“Colchester were knocking the ball around so well, in the early part of the season.

“They didn’t do that so much on Saturday and the fans got a bit frustrated but they can play their part.

“The crowd were quiet but in their defence, they didn’t really have a lot to cheer about.

“Saying that, people have to remember though where we were ten or 15 years ago - the club is in great shape now with a great chairman behind it."

For all of the latest Colchester United news, see Tuesday's Gazette.