Wright is gaining an “invaluable education” in the world of coaching

The ex-Colchester United star has a dual role working full-time within the U’s academy, in addition to managing Ryman League side Maldon & Tiptree.

There is a development link-up between the two clubs.

Wright is the focal point and thoroughly enjoying the challenge of working with, and improving, the best young players in both camps.

“I love it,” said the former full-back, whose previous clubs include Ipswich Town.

“I’m really enjoying working with the players on a daily basis, trying to develop them and make them better.

“We work out of all tactical, technical, physical and psychological corners and it’s very interesting, because every player is different.

“They need to be treated differently, so it’s a case of working them out, connecting with them and finding a way to develop them.

“That’s something I’m really enjoying and the most satisfying thing is when you see that they know what you’re talking about.

“It might take an hour, it might take a day, it might take four weeks or it might take a year.

“But whenever it happens, there’s a moment when a light goes off in their head.

“Then you think ‘yeah, they’ve got it’.

“That’s the buzz of coaching and the education I’m getting is invaluable.

“I’m also learning so much about myself, as an individual.

“I tap into as many people as possible, to try and improve myself.

“I’m trying to improve these boys but I want to improve myself and become the best coach I can.

“I’m learning every day and can’t just look after myself anymore - I’m looking after about 30 people.”

After ending his playing days with Colchester, Wright returned to the U’s coaching set-up in June, linking up with the club’s academy and working under John McGreal.

He believes there is plenty of raw talent at the club - unpolished diamonds that he hopes to groom for a career in professional football.

But he says patience is the watchword and it is vital not to expect too much, too soon.

“They’re a very young bunch and most of our players are 19 or 20,” said the 35-year-old.

“They’re babies, in football terms.

“That means we have to be patient, because that’s vital when you’re developing young players.

“If they knew everything, they’d be in people’s first teams.

“We will get back to those performance levels, because I see it on a daily basis.”