 However, his stay with the Valiants was cut short with a hamstring injury, pulling up after just 37 minutes of a game against Wycombe Wanderers, and having only played 45 minutes previously.In April 2002, Atangana was released by Dundee United after just twelve appearances in all competitions.Following his Dundee United exit, Atangana returned to England to join Colchester United in November 2002 on a weekly contract.