JOSH Ruffels is happy to play an unspectacular role for Oxford United if it helps the side get positive results.

The 21-year-old will be aiming for a sixth start in seven games when the U’s visit Bury tomorrow.

His duties alongside Michael Collins in the middle of the park are appreciated by teammates, without always catching the eye.

The Kidlington midfielder acknowledged it meant the headlines normally went to others, but had no problems as long as head coach Michael Appleton was pleased with his contribution.

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He said: “Some people tend not to realise what I do.

“It can be a bit unnoticed but I try to do my bit for the team.

“That’s all that matters to me, as long as I’m doing what the gaffer wants me to do.

“I feel like I can play any kind of role in midfield and whatever I have to do for the team I will do it.

“If that means I’m under the radar so be it.”

Ruffels passed 60 appearances for United in the midweek draw with Morecambe.

His only senior goal date came in last season’s trip to Bury, when he headed home at a corner to earn a 1-1 draw.

While that campaign saw Ruffels rack up 35 appearances for the U’s, it has taken until this term for the former Coventry City trainee to shed the feeling of being a development squad player.

“Definitely, I think the second season I’ve come out of that category a little bit,” he said.

“I’m more of a senior player, I’m not there yet, but I’m getting there.

“I feel like I’ve earned the right to get the shirt now because I have those appearances under my belt.”

His run in the side with Collins has kept Andy Whing and Danny Rose, both vastly more experienced, on the sidelines.

It is arguably the most competitive spot in the side, but Ruffels relishes trying to keep the shirt.

“I’m more than happy to fight for it and take the challenge,” he said.

“With Andy Whing and Rosie on your tail it’s difficult, so you’ve got to make sure you’re on your game all the time.

“On the day you have to be selfish and think ‘he’s picked me, I’ve got to keep the shirt’.”