Colchester have set their sights on an immediate return to the Championship after being relegated without playing on Wednesday.

The Us dropped back to League One after FA Cup semi-finalists Barnsley registered a 3-0 win at promotion-chasing Watford.

Chief executive Marie Partner said: "We are doing what we can to make sure we've got every chance for an immediate return. There will be a lot of people hurting. We may be down now but there are a lot of positive things going on.

"As disappointed as we all are we now have to kick on with what we've been doing over the past six months, which is to step up our planning and preparation to ensure we get back up there as soon as possible.

"I am sure the players will look to instil faith in the fans with some positive results in the final games in order to encourage them to stick with us and be part of our hopes and dreams for next season and beyond."

TeamTalk / Eurosport