COLCHESTER United boss Kevin Keen has described his side’s relegation as “extremely painful”.

The U’s fate was sealed as a result of this afternoon’s 3-0 defeat at home to Burton Albion.

It means the club cannot now clamber out of the bottom three, regardless of what they do in their final two games of the season.

Keen was clearly upset to see his side relegated.

But he insists bright times lie ahead, if his group of players stick together and work hard.

He said: “I want to be positive.

“It’s extremely painful (to be relegated) but there are so many things that are good about Colchester United.

“The supporters are absolutely fantastic home and away and the chairman is so supportive.

“He loves the club and loves bringing young players through.

“If we can get all departments working together, I believe we can have a good season next year and a really bright future.”

Colchester were well beaten by the title-chasing Brewers but a pivotal moment in the contest came when Joe Edwards was sent off for a foul as early as the 17th minute.

Keen refused to criticise referee Mark Heywood.

However, in terms of the significance of the red card, he said: “It was absolutely monumental because up to that point it had been pretty even.

“To go down to ten men against such a good, hard-working side made it extremely difficult for us.

“The lad who went on to score the hat-trick is probably one of the best players we’ve seen this season and it’s a fantastic achievement for Burton (to be on the brink of promotion).

“Full credit to them.

“They haven’t got outstandingly fantastic players but they work so hard for each other and they’re a side we can learn from.”