Colchester United manager John Ward will receive financial backing when the transfer window opens next month, if required.

But the U's look set to continue with their more prudent approach to transfer activity.

Boss Ward is yet to splash the cash on any transfer fees, since his appointment in May.

The likes of Andy Bond and Brian Wilson arrived at Colchester on free transfers, while players such as David Mooney and Tom Williams have made an impact while on loan.

U's executive chairman Robbie Cowling revealed to the Gazette that the club still have a competitive budget.

However, he admitted there has been a shift in transfer activity in general over recent months, at lower-league level.

Cowling told the Gazette: “We have to be sensible and run the club in the way we do."

For more on this story and all of the latest Colchester United news, see Monday's Gazette.