Ian Henderson admits Colchester United are in a transitional period after putting his former club to the sword.

Henderson, who made more than 100 league appearances for the U’s between 2010 and 2013, was in impressive form on his first return to the Weston Homes Community Stadium since leaving them last year.

The 29-year-old scored from the spot in Dale’s 4-1 win, which lifted them into the play-off positions in League One.

Henderson played under Aidy Boothroyd and John Ward during his time with Colchester.

But he left the U’s in January 2013 at a time when Joe Dunne was reshaping his squad.

And the hard-working forward was reluctant to elaborate on the manner of his exit.

“I spent three great years here,” said Henderson.

“I came back from Turkey, got brought back here and had an incredible time.

“The club’s in a transition period at the moment and I wish them the very, very best, to Tony Humes and Richard Hall because they are good people and the chairman, Robbie Cowling, as well.

“But that’s all I’ve got to say on that matter.”

Henderson played a big part in Rochdale's promotion from League Two last season and along with fellow former U's player Michael Rose, is playing a big part in their current campaign.

Henderson said: “All in all, we’re really happy with the performance.

“Whether it’s luck I don’t know but we’re doing the right things at home as well but fortunately it’s happening away from home for us, which we’ll take.

“We’ve just moved back into a play-off place and considering it’s our first time back in League One for a few years that’s a great position to be in, moving towards the December period where there are lots of games.

“As long as we keep doing the fundamentals correctly we’ll put ourselves in good stead.”

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