Former Chelsea and England defender John Terry attended Colchester United’s League Two fixture on Tuesday amid reports that he is part of a consortium looking to take over the club.

The Sun reported on Monday, external that the group had submitted a £14m offer for the club, which was put up for sale last year by chairman Robbie Cowling.

Terry was greeted by supporters when he arrived at the Jobserve Community Stadium before watching Colchester beat Accrington Stanley 2-1.

His nephew Frankie Terry, also a defender, played 90 minutes for the U’s in what was a third straight win for the club as they moved up to 12th.

Cowling has confirmed that “detailed discussions” are ongoing but said he was “not in a position to comment on any specific individuals or companies involved”.

Speaking after the game, manager Danny Cowley told BBC Essex: “It felt like a big night for the players, first and foremost, but also the club – I thought our supporters were incredible.

“I am really proud that in front of the eyes of many we are able to show a top version of what is a wonderful football club.

“We know this is a brilliant football club because we live it every day – there are some brilliant people at this club.

“We genuinely believe it has such high potential and we do need just a springboard to push on from and that is what we hope is on its way.

“I am so excited for our supporters. It is not easy supporting lower league clubs and Colchester United have not had it easy.

“Since Nicky [Cowley, brother] and I have been here we have been able to stabilise and find a good level of consistency but we all want more and I believe there are really exciting times ahead.”

When asked if he had met John Terry, Cowley added: “I will talk about Frankie, because he was great tonight and he would have done his family proud, that is for sure.”