DERRY NAMES LUKE BERRY CAPTAIN FOR THE REMAINDER OF THE SEASON

PRE-MATCH INTERVIEW: SHAUN DERRY

Manager Shaun Derry has given Luke Berry the captain’s armband for the remainder of the 2015/16 Sky Bet League Two season.

The U’s boss states the midfielder’s level of performance on a consistent basis for United has demanded the decision and he will now look for the 23-year old to push on once more.

Derry commented: “In Luke, we have got a young man with Cambridge United right at his heart and he also represents a very good player at our disposal.

“His performance levels in recent months have been excellent and that has led to the decision. 

“It’s an important for Bez, and it will hopefully see him take his leadership qualities into different areas. He now needs to take his level of performance on to the next level.”

Derry adds that Mark Roberts has taken the decision in the correct way and feels the U’s centre back will respond in the most professional manner possible.

He said: “It was a big decision to make, but I have got to say Mark Roberts took it in the absolute right way, which doesn’t surprise me, as he is top person.

“Mark is a very well respected bloke by everybody at the football club. Obviously the decision has hurt him, which of course it would when that tag gets taken away because it’s a hit.

“He will respond with a doubt and he’s taken it like a man.”

Berry will lead the U’s out for the first time at the Abbey Stadium  against Dagenham & Redbridge on Saturday afternoon, with tickets for the clash available online, in-store and over the phone by calling 01223 566 500.

The match has been sponsored by Image Office Cleaning.