RYAN Gondoh says he is determined to make every moment count when he plays for Colchester United.

Gondoh made his fifth league appearance for the U’s as a late substitute in their 3-3 draw with Notts County, on Saturday.

The attacker has been a regular on Colchester’s bench this season, as they challenge for promotion from League Two.

And the 21-year-old, who joined the U’s from non-league outfit Maldon and Tiptree last January, is focused on making the most of any opportunities he has.

Gondoh told the Gazette: “Every opportunity that the gaffer gives me – whether it’s a minute, five or ten – I try to make it worthwhile.

“From the moment I made my debut, I’ve been trying to show everyone what I’m capable of and what I can bring to the table for the team.

“I’ve been waiting patiently and training hard waiting for my chance.

“I tried to get into the game early on and try and make things happen.

“Coming off the bench is hard to make an impact, because I’m not at the pace of everyone else.”

Colchester lie outside of League Two’s play-off places on goal difference, following a run of one win in six matches.

However, Gondoh insists that spirits are still high among the U’s squad, despite their dip in form.

“It’s a tight division and there’s literally three points between second and eighth,” said the former Barnet youngster.

“Every side is pushing for automatic promotion and the play-offs and every point is crucial.

“It’s so tight at the top and we have to make sure that we get our wins.

“The confidence in the changing room and in training is high.

“There’s never a dull moment at our club and we never have our heads down or go into our shell if we lose.

“The players that the gaffer picks are always up for a battle and the morale in the camp is always upbeat.

“We’re always in it on every single match day and never leave anything on the pitch.”

Colchester are now preparing for a trip to play Port Vale this weekend and Gondoh says they will be looking for three points, at Vale Park.

He added: “We’ve had five games in 15 days but now it’s gone back to one game a week.

“We have more time now for recovery and rest and then we go again every Saturday looking to win.”