JON De Souza has taken over as Colchester United's new Director of Performance.

De Souza has presided over the U's academy over the last three years after arriving at the club in 2016.

However, the former Brentford youth-team boss will now take up the newly-created Director of Performance position.

He will head a department which will focus on improving the performances of the U's teams, players and staff.

As a result of the switch, Colchester are now receiving applications for the role of academy manager.

The appointment comes on the day that experienced physio Tony Flynn announced his retirement, following 14 years at the U's.

Colchester chairman Robbie Cowling told the U's website: "I felt that the club needed a department that would concentrate solely on improving the performances of our teams, players and staff.

"Sport has moved on so far in recent years and those teams that have invested in modern methods to enhance their performances have been rewarded with amazing returns.

"Jon has a Sports Science degree, a Business Masters degree, has coached at first team level and he has done a great job for Colchester United since he joined as Academy Manager three years ago.

"Jon is also passionate about what we are doing at Colchester United.

"These two staff changes mean we have some challenging roles to fill but we are already attracting high calibre applicants."