Colchester say it is "highly unlikely" they will have a new manager in place for Friday's relegation battle with Mansfield.

The board of directors are still looking through many applications, though chairman Peter Heard carried out preliminary interviews with some candidates last week.

A club spokesman said: "The board are still looking through all the applications, though some interviews were held last week with interested parties.

"Those interviews were carried out by just the chairman, as will the others until a shortlist is drafted, and then the board will decide between them.

"As it stands, it's highly unlikely anyone will be in before the Mansfield game."

The U's parted company with boss Steve Whitton by mutual consent last week.

Caretaker manager Geraint Williams was immediately put in charge of the team.