Carlisle United's fellow League Two club Colchester United have appointed their third head coach of the season.

Ex-Swindon Town and Charlton Athletic boss Ben Garner has joined the Essex club.

It follows the departure of Matt Bloomfield, who left for Wycombe Wanderers soon after Colchester's 1-0 defeat at Brunton Park.

Garner follows Bloomfield and previous boss Wayne Brown in taking the helm at the 19th-placed club.

Colchester said Garner will observe their game against Bradford City on Saturday, when caretaker Ross Embleton will remain in charge, before taking training for the first time next week.

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The 42-year-old led Swindon Town to the play-offs last season before leaving for League One club Charlton in the summer.

He was sacked by the Addicks in December.

Colchester had been linked with other candidates including Danny Cowley but have now turned to Garner.

The U's are nine points above the relegation zone after a run of impressive form under Bloomfield, who has since replaced QPR-bound Gareth Ainsworth at Wycombe.