Following a poor start to the season, Burley turned around Colchester's fortunes as the U's lost just once in 20 league and cup matches.

Dale Roberts was placed in charge as caretaker manager before former Colchester defender Steve Wignall was appointed.

With chairman Gordon Parker sacking former manager and his own son-in-law Roy McDonough just days after the conclusion of the 1993–94 season, former Ayr United player-manager George Burley was appointed his replacement in July.

Burley had a shaky start, with a number of youth team players called up for the first game of the season due to injuries.

On 4 March, Colchester allowed free admittance to all attending the clash with Darlington, including away supporters.