Joe Dunne has challenged his struggling side to repay the support of Colchester United’s fans by beating in-form Yeovil Town tonight.

And the U’s boss has warned his players they will be shown the door if they do not rise to the challenge.

Dunne is demanding a big response from his team, in the wake of their 5-1 defeat against Tranmere Rovers last weekend.

The majority of Colchester supporters stuck by Dunne and his players against Tranmere, despite the magnitude of their side’s home defeat.

And Dunne wants his side to show similar determination, as they aim to secure a much-needed win in their battle to beat the drop.

Colchester head into tonight’s match three points adrift of safety, in League One.

Dunne said: “The fans are up for the fight and if we can pass some of that on into our changing room, I’ll do my best to.

“The fans were great again (against Tranmere) but we need to give them something back.

“We have a challenge tonight and we must respond."

See Tuesday's Gazette for more on this story and all of the latest Colchester United news, including a full preview of their game against Yeovil Town tonight.