Sanmi Odelusi admits he is playing a game of patience as he bids to force his way into Colchester United’s starting line-up.

But the former Wigan Athletic attacker has vowed to impress whenever he can – and seize his chances when they come along.

Odelusi has so far found his opportunities few and far between since joining the U’s on a free transfer, in August.

The 24-year-old has made just two substitute appearances for Colchester in League Two but after featuring in their 2-2 Central League Cup game against Southend United yesterday, he is willing to play the waiting game as he targets a place in John McGreal’s side.

Odelusi told the Daily Gazette: “Football is a funny game – one minute you can play ten minutes and the next, you can be starting from then until the end of the season.

“It’s about playing a patience game for myself but also I have to keep focused which I am and I know that when the time does come, I’ll continue to give my all, that’s all I can really do.

“It’s been a while since I’ve played regularly but I’m feeling good.

“Competition is great because the boys that are starting won’t get too comfortable, as they have players challenging them for their places.

“It keeps the team hungry and that’s good.”

Odelusi played for an hour of Colchester’s draw with Southend United, where goals from Tommy O’Sullivan and Nicke Kabamba secured them a share of the spoils.

“It was good to get some minutes under my belt, as it was for the other chaps that played,” said the former Bolton Wanderers trainee.

“When you don’t play regularly, you have to take these games as if they’re a Saturday or a Tuesday (in the first team) and that’s very important.

“You have to prepare for a reserve team game the same way you prepare for a first team game.

“Every time I cross the white line, I have to give 100 per cent regardless of where it is.

“I’m looking to impress, not only for the people watching for also for myself as well to hit the standards that I know that I’m capable of hitting.”

Odelusi’s only start so far for Colchester was in their Checkatrade Trophy defeat against Gillingham, last week.

He added: “That was my first start for the club and it had been a long time since I’d last started a game.

“There’s still more to come and the main thing is that I got minutes under my belt again and I’ll try and continue to do that - the team is the most important thing and it’s great that they’re winning.”