David Fox admits Colchester United’s relegation battle has increased his burden of responsibility this season.

But the playmaker insists he is taking his leadership duties at the U’s very seriously.

Fox has skippered Colchester for the majority of the season, following club captain Magnus Okuonghae’s Achilles injury.

The 31-year-old is the most experienced member of the U’s side and says he is aware of his duties, with so many young players in the squad.

Fox said: “I do think I have an extra responsibility because of the club’s league position and it’s something that I’m taking seriously.

“I’ll be trying to make sure that everything gets done properly, whether that be every day in training to keeping the lads’ standards high to making sure that everyone’s disciplined.

“I’ve got to make sure that that happens between now and the end of the season, because it’s those margins that can make a difference.

“Being captain is a nice responsibility - it wasn’t something I was expecting.

“It’s due to Magnus’s unfortunate injury that it’s happened.

“I wish I wasn’t captain, because that would mean Mags is playing.

“He’s a big miss for us but being captain is something I enjoy and I think the lads look up to what I say.

“Hopefully, I can have a positive impact around the dressing room every day and take it from there.

“There are different types of captain - some can go around screaming and others can score you 30 goals.

“Hopefully, I’m someone the lads can learn from.”

Meanwhile, Fox believes Norwich loanee Jacob Murphy can help Colchester avoid relegation, this season.

Fox knows all about the young winger from his Canaries days, when Murphy was progressing through the academy ranks at Carrow Road.

“I know Jacob very well,” said Fox, who is battling to shake off a toe injury in time for Colchester’s game with Port Vale on Good Friday.

“He was involved all of the time I was there and it’s great to have him on board.

“He did great and hopefully there’ll be many more performances out of him because he can be a big player for us if he’s on song.

“He’s a threat – he’s got pace and we’ll try and get him on the ball as much as we can.”

For all of the latest Colchester United news, see the Daily Gazette.