The 39-year-old replaces Geraint Williams, who left the Essex club by mutual consent last month following their disappointing start to the new season.

Lambert began his managerial career at Livingston and spent two years in charge at Wycombe before resigning at the end of last season following their elimination from the League Two play-offs.

Former Crystal Palace defender Kit Symons, who was assistant to Williams, has been in temporary charge for the last four games but the Us have yet to register a victory at their new Community Stadium.

mfl

Chairman Robbie Cowling interviewed four candidates for the role and Lambert, who guided Wycombe to a memorable Carling Cup semi-final draw against Chelsea in 2007, was the board's unanimous choice.

"I thought when I came for my interview that whoever gets the Colchester job will have a really good board behind them with some great plans and I'm honoured to get the job," said Lambert.

"The club has gone up the leagues quickly and is now in a bit of a dip which is normal, but it's a vibrant club with a new stadium and one or two results just haven't gone their way so it's up to me to rectify that.

"Geraint Williams did a terrific job and I will do my utmost to bring the club some success.

"The players are better than they have shown but results just haven't gone for them. They just need a little bit of guidance."

Symons and reserves boss Joe Dunne will take charge of the Us at Cheltenham on Saturday, but Lambert plans to bring in his own backroom staff.