The 49 year old took over in September 2014 but this season has overseen a poor run for the U's, who have the worst defensive record in the Football League, shipping 49 goals in just 19 games.

They are currently 19th in the League, and just one point above the relegation zone after their Tuesday night defeat to fellow strugglers Crewe.

It was after that game that Humes and Chairman Robbie Cowling met and the decision was taken that Humes and the club would go their separate ways. 

According to a statement on the club's website, "Humes felt that his presence was becoming detrimental to the club and the young players that he had nurtured in his time at the U's and it would be best to remove himself from the equation."

"Robbie would like to place on record his thanks to Tony for his hard work, not only over the past fourteen months but throughout the years he has been at Colchester United."  

Assistant boss Richard Hall and current U21s boss John McGreal will take charge of Saturday’s game at Burton Albion, assisted by Wayne Brown.