Colchester United – Former Manager Back In Charge And Records Impressive Victory

Former Colchester United and Crawley Town manager Matty Etherington was “back in charge” of the U’s U21 side in a Professional Development League fixture this evening, according to the club’s official website. 

Etherington took over as manager of the first team stepping up from his youth role earlier in the season, following the sacking of former Swindon Town and Charlton Athletic boss Ben Garner in October. He initially took charge on an interim basis but was given the permanent role in November. However, his spell was short-lived as just 47 days after taking charge he was dismissed.

This period included just one win in nine and a very public battle with his former employers Crawley Town which meant he had to temporarily step down while legal advice was sought. Following his sacking Danny and Nicky Cowley took charge of the team.

The 42-year-old has now returned to the club to take up his former role in the youth set-up. In a match report released today on the official website, rather casually his return is mentioned in the opening line. “Matty Etherington was back in charge with Liam Bailey also by his side. The coaching duo named a strong starting eleven with the likes of Tom Smith and Owura Edwards coming out for the first forty-five minutes.” This marks his return three months after his departure. 

The game

Etherington took charge as Colchester United recorded an impressive 6-2 victory over Bristol City. Several first team players were present including Owura Edwards, Marley Marshall Miranda and Tom Smith as well as three unknown trialists.

A good move for the Colchester United?

Etherington stepped into the role as an interim and understandably would have jumped at the chance to take over on a permanent basis. However, he shouldn’t have ever been handed the role until he had perhaps proved himself over a longer period. His brief spell at Crawley Town and controversial departure from them followed by his inexperience in the top job wouldn’t have provided much confidence that he had what it takes to battle in a competitive League Two full of big-hitting sides.

This, in hindsight, has become increasingly obvious with the capture of the Cowley brothers who could have arguably obtained a club at a higher level. So allowing him to slot back into his position in the youth set-up, working alongside Danny and Nicky will perhaps give him some more experience and time to develop his coaching ability.