COLCHESTER United midfielder Harry Pell says John McGreal helped him improve - both on and off the pitch.

The U's favourite says he 'enjoyed every minute' of playing under McGreal, who has parted company with Colchester after just over four years in the hot seat.

McGreal was dismissed by Colchester chairman Robbie Cowling, who wants the club to go in a 'new direction' with the first team even more tightly aligned with the academy.

But Pell, who played 61 times under McGreal during his time at Colchester after joining them Cheltenham Town in 2018, says he is grateful to the departing U's boss.

Writing on Twitter, he said: "I'd just like to make public my sincere thanks to the gaffer...(John McGreal).

"He brought me to Colchester as his signing, and I've totally enjoyed every minute of it playing under him and Bally for two years.

"A manager that I could trust, and a manager that has helped me improve, both on and off the pitch.

"I wish you the very best in your next role boss."