Michael Rose has admitted he is frustrated over his lack of first-team action at Colchester United.

But the experienced defender has insisted that he is doing all he can to reclaim his place in the U’s starting line-up.

Rose, 29, started each of Colchester’s opening five matches this season, following his summer move from League Two side Swindon Town.

But he has not figured since their 3-1 Johnstone’s Paint Trophy defeat at the hands of Barnet, in August.

Ben Coker has occupied the left-back spot in each of the U’s last 12 league games and is showing no sign of relinquising the shirt in a hurry.

Rose said: “It’s been really disappointing not to be involved.

“I want to be playing and I’m really frustrated that I’m not, at the moment.

“I felt I started my time at Colchester very well but I haven’t played now for two months.

“I’m pretty annoyed at myself at making the mistakes I did.

“But that’s in the past now and when the time comes that I get my chance again, I have to make sure I take it.

“I just have to try and do whatever I can do to get back in but Ben Coker has come in and has done really well.”

See Wednesday's Gazette for more on this story and all of the latest Colchester United news, including U's head of youth Tony Humes on the revamp of academy football in this country.