AN honoured Curtis Nelson believes John Lundstram will be a tough act to follow after becoming Oxford United’s new captain.

The centre back was the obvious candidate to inherit the armband following Lundstram’s move to Sheffield United, which was completed on Tuesday night.

Nelson already has the benefit of captaincy experience, having led Plymouth Argyle before joining the U’s 12 months ago.

And having played under Lundstram last season, the 24-year-old is aiming to provide continuity.

Nelson said: “It’s a massive honour, but I’ve got to give credit to Lunny as well.

“He’s done a brilliant job in the last year and they are big boots to fill.

“I wish him all the best in his career, he definitely deserves it.

“He’s a brilliant player and I think he will go on to great things.

“I have been in the position Lunny was in when I was at Plymouth, but I think he dealt with it really well.

“I think he grew up a little bit.

“Obviously he turned to the experienced pros for help last year and he’s learned from it.

“I don’t want to change too much from what Lunny’s done, because he had everything in place.

“I’m just going to take over really.”

There was a feeling last season it took Lundstram time to adjust to the role, contributing to patchy form in the first few weeks.

As someone who already knows what it takes to captain a side, Nelson is not expecting it to have an impact – and he wants everyone to step up.

He said: “It shouldn’t change my game too much.

“It gives you the responsibility, but through past experience you want 11 leaders on the pitch.

“You want people to take responsibility off the pitch as well and help their teammates at all times.

“I’ve got the armband, but I expect everyone in the team to be leaders.”

For United manager Pep Clotet, the decision on who succeeded Lundstram was straightforward.

He said: “The staff agreed he has the right attitudes to be a leader.

“He’s a natural frontman for the squad “He can give a lot of support to the new players coming, and for those who were already here he has their respect.

“I think he’s a good age to keep developing.”