League One's basement side Colchester United have confirmed the managerial appointment of Kevin Keen.

The announcement has come just two days after the 48-year-old was seen sitting in the stands during Saturday's 3-1 defeat away at Rochdale.

The former Liverpool and Reading coach has inherited a side that is without a win from their last eight league outings, seven of which have ended in defeat.

"I'm ready and raring to go. It's a realistic aim to stay up and do even better than that," he told reporters.

"There are still loads of games to go and I want the lads to work hard, stick together and I'm sure we will be fine."

Keen will be assisted at the Colchester Community Stadium by David Wright.