Following Saturday’s defeat against Harrogate Town, Colchester United have parted company with head coach Ben Garner according to a club statement.
The U’s have experienced a difficult start to the 2023/24 League Two campaign, sitting 23rd in the table and occupying the dreaded relegation spots after 13 games.
Nine defeats already into the early parts of the season is certainly eye-raising. A current four match losing streak may have also contributed to the abrupt departure.
Most recently losing at home to Harrogate highlights how disappointing October has been as they have also fallen short to other struggling sides such as Forest Green Rovers and Newport County.
Brought in to replace Matt Bloomfield who departed for Wycombe Wanderers, Garner’s tenure saw him take charge of just 27 fixtures. Most notably, he helped to secure safety and EFL status last season.
A short statement released this evening said;
“Colchester United have relieved Ben Garner of his duties as Head Coach with immediate effect.
“Board members will be discussing the plans to be put in place, for both the immediate period with games on Tuesday and Saturday, and further into the future.
“Colchester United would like to place on record its thanks to Ben for his time at the club.
“No further comment will be made at this time.”
Writers View
Colchester have certainly made an underwhelming start to the season. The fact that they currently sit in the drop-zone emphasises the need for change and fresh ideas. Ben Garner is a top coach and deserves credit for ensuring that Colchester are still afloat in the Football League, despite many tipping them for relegation.
For now, something different is needed to ensure positive results and it will be interesting to see who they bring in to salvage their season.
