Failed sale gives Colchester clarity - Cowley

Danny Cowley's side will face Tranmere Rovers on 2 August in their League Two season opener

Colchester United manager Danny Cowley says the failed sale of the club has given him and his staff "short-term clarity".

It comes after the proposed takeover by a United States-based consortium was called off, with owner Robbie Cowling saying the parties had "not been able to reach an agreement".

Cowling, who has owned the U's since 2006, has maintained his "long-term intention" is still to sell the club, but said that someone with "deeper pockets" is needed to take Colchester forward.

"Since the moment Robbie took over the club his decisions have been in the best interest of the club," Cowley told BBC Essex.

Cowling has maintained his "long-term intention" is still to sell the club

"They haven't always been popular but they are with the interests of the club at heart.

"He wants to sell the club, but he wants his final decision to be his best decision. For whatever reason he felt this isn't the right time."

United have returned to pre-season training and have already made several signings before their League Two opener at home to Tranmere Rovers on Saturday, 2 August.

Cowley said that he wanted to help Cowling make the club a "more attractive proposition" for potential buyers.

"The good thing is we have some clarity on the short term, and once you've got that it's easier to put stepping stones in place," he said.

"Robbie was clear what the budget would be if he remained in charge, and we won't be making excuses.

"This is a brilliant club with good foundations and we're trying to help take it to the next stage so Robbie can find a buyer who can propel it to where it can be."