Colchester United have announced that manager Joe Dunne has left the club by mutual consent.

The 41-year-old, who was appointed U's boss in 2012, had spent 15 years at the club as a player, coach and manager.

The League One outfit have decided to part company with Dunne following a poor start to the season, which has yielded just one point from five games.

Chairman Robbie Cowling told the club's official website: "Joe has done a remarkable job as manager for Colchester United over the past two seasons and he has been a remarkable servant for the club for many years.

"He is a Colchester United legend and I am grateful for the way he kept our club in League One during these challenging times. I wish him all of the very best for the future."

Colchester lost 3-1 to Peterborough United on Saturday in Dunne's final game in charge.