Justin Edinburgh: Late manager's family condemn abusive chants by Colchester United fans

Justin Edinburgh celebrated promotion with Leyton Orient less than two months before his death

The family of the late Justin Edinburgh have criticised a "vile and hurtful" song by some Colchester United fans at Saturday's game with Leyton Orient.

The former Orient boss died in June 2019 aged 49 after a cardiac arrest.

In a post on Twitter, his son Charlie described those responsible as "small-minded individuals" and said hurtful words "can have a lasting effect".

He continued: "Luckily, myself and my family are stronger and better than to let acts of this nature affect us."

The Edinburgh family have received messages of support following the incident at Brisbane Road.

Charlie added: "Football is a wonderful game enjoyed by many, but unfortunately there will always be a small minority who will take the time out to give the beautiful game and their respective club a bad name and reputation.

"My dad's legacy and reputation will never be forgotten and that alone outweighs any negativity or abuse."

Edinburgh led Orient to the National League title, and a return to the English Football League, two months before his death, having previously had spells as manager of Gillingham, Newport County and Northampton Town.

"Not for the first time this season a very small minority of those in the away section have acted in a shameful manner," a Colchester statement read.

"This time making vile chants that no decent person would make and are in no way shared by Colchester United or the vast majority of Colchester United fans.

"We will co-operate with Leyton Orient should there be any further investigations."

Colchester United fan group Blue White Army also condemned the chants, saying they had made a donation to the Justin Edinburgh Foundation.

"We hope this makes a small amends for the deplorable chants by a section of our fanbase," the group added.

Colchester scored twice late on in the League Two game against Orient to earn a draw after trailing 2-0.

The U's dropped to 21st in the division, five points above the relegation places, while Orient are six points clear at the top of the table.