'No, not quite one year on the farm, but close'
In a huge body blow to the Farmers, their boss Paul Lambert has jumped ship and joined League One rivals Norwich, the side his old team defeated 7-1 two weeks ago which led to the sacking of Bryan Gunn.
Lambert will watch the Canaries play Brentford tonight at Griffin Park, where current coaches Ian Butterworth and Ian Crook will be in charge.
It's being reported that he will be placed on a year's rolling contract while the two clubs discuss compensation.
Speaking at the press conference that announced Lambert's arrival Canaries chief executive David McNally outlined the board's reasons behind the appointment: "He was our number one choice and fulfils all the criteria the Board had set - it's all about ability, experience, track record, drive, hunger, commitment and winning mentality. Paul has all of those qualities."
The pair know each from their time together at Glasgow Celtic, but McNally went on: "Paul has been selected by the Norwich City Board and it's the Directors' view he's the best man for the job."
However, Farmers chairman Robbie Cowling is questioning the conduct of Norwich City regarding the appointments where Lambert has raided the coaching staff as well!
Cowling said that he received a phone call from City chairman Alan Bowkett shortly after Colchester had defeated Yeovil Town on Saturday, asking for permission to appoint Lambert as the club's new manager.
It goes on to say that Lambert handed Cowling his resignation last night (Monday), followed by coaches Culverhouse's and Karsa's this morning!
Presently, Col U are top of the early league table with a 100% record from the two games played. It will be interesting to see if it affects the side who take on Gillingham to-night, another side who have started well.
(It didn't, they won 2-1 and stay top. Hard to say but well done Farmers.)