Skipper Kem Izzet is desperate to force his way back into Colchester United’s starting line-up.
And the long-serving midfielder wants to play his part in what he sees as two vital home games for the U’s.
Colchester return to League One action against Scunthorpe United on Saturday, following a 12-day break without a match.
The U’s then play host to Chesterfield the following week, another team currently struggling in the bottom six.
Colchester lie nine points off the play-off places and Izzet knows it is crucial they take full advantage of back-to-back matches at the Weston Homes Community Stadium.
Izzet said: “We have two home games coming up now and they could determine where we’re going for the rest of our season.
“It’s not make or break, don’t get me wrong.
“But if you take six points out of those two games - or at least four - and you’re looking up rather than hovering where you are.”
Izzet is hoping to win a recall to the U’s starting line-up, ahead of their clash with Scunthorpe this weekend.
The 31-year-old has had to be content with a place on the bench of late and his last league start came at Carlisle United, at the end of November.
“I’m at that point now that I want to be playing as many games as I can,” said Izzet, who featured for the U’s in their Essex Senior Cup victory over Harlow Town on Tuesday night.
“Being on the bench is frustrating but while the lads are doing well, I just have to wait my turn.
“I have to take my chance when it comes and make the most of it.
“You have to make sure that you work hard and do things right, on and off the pitch.
“I want to be out there and helping the team achieve better things.”
See Thursday's Gazette for more on this story and all of the latest Colchester United news, including Karl Duguid's weekly column.
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