JAKE Wright cannot wait to begin working for Oxford United's new manager after receiving encouraging reports from friends who have played under Gary Waddock in the past.

The U's players met their new boss before training this morning, ahead of tomorrow night's game at Southend United.

After the news of the appointment broke yesterday, Wright spoke to several people in the game who had worked for Waddock at previous clubs.

The United captain was delighted with the feedback and is hopeful the side can finish the season strongly.

He said: "I've heard a load of good things about him, I've played with people who have played for him and they said positive things about him.

"We are excited about him coming in and starting.

"He's got a good set of staff and a good group of players with an excellent team spirit.

"We're in a good position so he's taken over at a really good club.

"Hopefully he will add something himself and we will go through a really good period."

United go into tomorrow's game in the back of a 1-0 win against Hartlepool United on Friday night, which Waddock watched from the stands.

It ended a run of six games without a win and Wright believes the result will have shown the qualities the squad has to offer.

He said: "I think it makes it a lot easier for him.

"Apparently he was at the game so he will have seen a lot of things that hopefully he liked and wants to carry on with.

"Maybe he saw a few things he wants to change.

"I'm looking forward to meeting him and going on from there."