Kem Izzet has admitted it was a surprise to be named Colchester United’s new captain.

But the long-serving U’s midfielder is relishing leading the U’s into battle this season.

Izzet beat off competition from the likes of Paul Reid and Marc Tierney to bag the armband on a permanent basis.

The 29-year-old is close to celebrating nearly a decade at Colchester and is looking forward to being at the forefront of the club’s push for promotion, in npower League One.

Izzet told the Gazette: “It was a surprise but I relish doing it.

“It’s something that I’ll enjoy.

“While I’m playing, I’ll try and lead the lads out there as much as I can."

For more on this story and a full preview of the U's Carling Cup first-round tie at Hereford United tonight, see today's Gazette.