When Wayne Brown moved to Hull City last month, Colchester United were deprived of their primary defensive linchpin.

Brown was seen as the leader of the defence; the man that many supporters felt held the back four together.

But his departure of Layer Road has given the opportunity for another of the club's consistent defenders to adopt the role of leader.

Pat Baldwin is still only 24 but has just begun his sixth season at Layer Road.

The man the fans call Rio, a nickname which originated from Baldwin's footballing likeness to stylish Manchester United and England defender Rio Ferdinand, has been given extra responsibility following Brown's exit. He is clearly relishing the opportunity to allow his leadership qualities to flourish.

Indeed, it is not something that is new to the former Chelsea trainee, who was used to taking the lead at youth-team level.

"At every football level I've played at I've been a captain and talking is a big part of my game," said Baldwin, who has been impressive in the U's opening two Coca-Cola Championship matches.

"Now that Wayne has gone, I'm enjoying speaking up and being vocal and it's something that I relish. I'm settled at Colchester and I'm really enjoying my football."