MODEST striker Kayode Odejayi refused to take full credit for Colchester United’s comeback win against Notts County on Saturday following his fine brace of headers.

And the Nigerian says he is prepared to keep performing the role of super-sub if that’s his manager’s request.

“It wasn’t just down to me,” said the striker, whose gentle giant demeanour off the pitch is a million miles away from his powerhouse displays on it.

“Obviously I got the two goals but I think the reaction came from all of the team.

“They were two peach deliveries from Tom’s (Williams) left-foot. He actually pulled me aside at half-time and told me to make sure I was in the box when he got the ball.”

Odejayi scored seven goals in his first 11 games for Colchester last season after Aidy Boothroyd signed him on loan from Barnsley. The goals rather dried up once the move became permanent in January though and he added just three more in 20 further appearances.

New U’s boss John Ward subsequently signed David Mooney on loan from Reading this summer and Odejayi has found himself limited to the role of impact substitute.

“Last season my goal record wasn’t brilliant,” admitted Odejayi.

“I can’t complain with the bit part role so far because, fair play to the boys, they’ve started the season well.

“It has been frustrating but that’s part and parcel of football, a professional hazard, and all you can do is keep your head down, work as hard as you can and make sure you take your chance when you get it.

“Hopefully I have done that today and put myself in the manager’s thoughts for next weekend, but if I find myself on the bench again I’ll just make sure I’m ready for when I’m next called upon.”

Meanwhile, U’s boss Ward admits Odejayi’s match-winning performance has left him with a selection headache ahead of Saturday’s trip to high-flying Bournemouth.

He said: “Kayode challenged for the ball in their right-back position at one point and that just seemed to lift the team.

“He’s been knocking on my door with some good performances in training, but has never been a problem for me attitude-wise.

“I’m really pleased he got his goals today and he’s certainly given me a decision to make for next weekend.

“I’ve worked with him a number of times and I know that he can affect games and cause the opposition major problems.

“When he’s on his game and getting the service he can make a big difference.”

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