Colchester United's turnaround under new boss Danny Cowley has been nothing short of remarkable, with the team currently priced at 11/4 to be promoted in Sky Bet League Two.
Since taking over as manager on January 4, 2024, Cowley has overseen a dramatic transformation at the Colchester club, which had looked perilously close to relegation just six months prior. Despite being hampered by injuries and a depleted squad, the U's have won 10 of their last 16 games, with an impressive margin for safety in both winning runs.
"We've got some real challenges with injury at the start of the season," Cowley explained during an exclusive interview. "We are a very small squad, so we need our key players fit."
Cowley acknowledged that injuries had decimated his squad, particularly in midfield where Jack Payne and Ben Perry were among those lost to injury. However, despite these setbacks, he remained upbeat about the team's prospects.
"We're probably the youngest group I've had," Cowley said with a smile. "It's great fun every day!" The manager was keen to highlight his side's youth and enthusiasm, describing them as "humble boys" who simply want to improve.
Cowley also stressed the importance of finding balance in the team's playing profile and positions, as well as social connections among the squad. When he finds the right mix, he believes that results will follow.
The manager has his own experience of building a winning side at previous clubs, particularly with his brother Nicky who he managed at Lincoln.
"The longer we are at a club, the easier it is to have success," Danny explained. "Time helps you in every industry, in every walk of life, and certainly in football."
Since taking over as manager on January 4, 2024, Cowley has overseen a dramatic transformation at the Colchester club, which had looked perilously close to relegation just six months prior. Despite being hampered by injuries and a depleted squad, the U's have won 10 of their last 16 games, with an impressive margin for safety in both winning runs.
"We've got some real challenges with injury at the start of the season," Cowley explained during an exclusive interview. "We are a very small squad, so we need our key players fit."
Cowley acknowledged that injuries had decimated his squad, particularly in midfield where Jack Payne and Ben Perry were among those lost to injury. However, despite these setbacks, he remained upbeat about the team's prospects.
"We're probably the youngest group I've had," Cowley said with a smile. "It's great fun every day!" The manager was keen to highlight his side's youth and enthusiasm, describing them as "humble boys" who simply want to improve.
Cowley also stressed the importance of finding balance in the team's playing profile and positions, as well as social connections among the squad. When he finds the right mix, he believes that results will follow.
The manager has his own experience of building a winning side at previous clubs, particularly with his brother Nicky who he managed at Lincoln.
"The longer we are at a club, the easier it is to have success," Danny explained. "Time helps you in every industry, in every walk of life, and certainly in football."