Colchester United have appointed John Ward as their new manager to replace Aidy Boothroyd who left to become manager of Coventry City.
The much travelled Ward, whose managerial career includes Cheltenham Town, Carlisle United, York and both Bristol clubs, had been assistant to Boothroyd before Ray Ranson lined him up as the man to replace Chris Coleman.
With the Sky Blues having paid off Colchester to secure Boothroyd's contract, many Colchester supporters had expected the money to be used in finding a manager new to the club, but Colchester Chairman Russ Cowling told his club's website: "Promoting an assistant manager to the lead role is often seen as a cheap or safe option, but I can assure all Colchester fans that I have selected John because I truly believe he is the best candidate for the job.
"John has vast experience of League One and has previously managed five clubs where he has either guided them to promotion or into the play-offs.
"I have also been impressed with John's hunger to manage again. I have always sought ambitious managers and there is little doubt that he is as enthusiastic and ambitious as ever."