Richard Brindley admits he was left surprised by Tony Humes’ departure – and says he has nothing but praise for the former Colchester United manager.

Brindley made a long-awaited return to the U’s starting line-up in their 5-1 defeat at Burton Albion, having missed the last three months with a knee injury.

The 22-year-old full-back was brought to Colchester by Humes initially on loan last season, before joining them on a permanent basis in the summer.

Brindley says he was “gutted” to see his former boss resign last week – but says the U’s players must now look to the future.

Brindley said: “It’s something we didn’t see coming and I personally thank Tony for what he’s done in a short space of time.

“I was gutted when he left and that I’d been out injured and couldn’t help.

“He’s helped me a lot and I have nothing but praise and thanks for him and I think the other players will stay the same.

“It was disappointing that he left but all we can do now is focus on the present and the future."

For more on this story and five pages of U's coverage, see Monday's Daily Gazette.