FORMER Colchester United favourite Brennan Dickenson is now a free agent, after being released by Exeter City.

And his exit has prompted some U's fans to call for him to return to the JobServe Community Stadium.

Dickenson, who appeared as a substitute for the Grecians in their Colchester's play-off semi-final last week, is one of nine players who have been released by the Devon club following their Wembley defeat to Northampton Town, on Monday night.

Writing on his Twitter account, Dickenson said: "So my time at Exeter has come to an end. Gutted to be leaving.

"Massive thank you to the staff and players for everything you have helped me through since I arrived at the club.

"For you to take on the personal issues I had with my dad passing away and to just crack on with it has been amazing.

"It's been a pleasure to play with this bunch of lads, had some ups and downs but overall it's been a great time.

"The fans have been unreal, the support at every game has been amazing home and away so thank you for that!

"I wish everyone at the club all the best for the future.

"Thank you again."

Dickenson spent three seasons at the JobServe Community Stadium, after joining them from Gillingham.

The 27-year-old joined in the summer of 2016 and, in his first season, scooped the player-of-the-year and players' player-of-the-year accolades.

After battling back from a serious knee injury, the former Brighton and Gillingham attacker went on to make a total of 93 appearances, scoring 15 goals.

Dickenson remains a popular figure among Colchester fans, despite leaving them last summer to join MK Dons.

Boots2Africa wrote 'Get him back!' while Simon Wilding posted 'Come home to Col U!!!'

Andy Hunt posted 'Plleaaaasssseeeeeeee bring him back' and Ben Harrison said 'Please make it happen #colu there's only one Brenaldo'