SKIPPER Brian Wilson says he and his team-mates must “take responsibility” and ease the pressure on Colchester United boss Joe Dunne.

The Irishman came under fire from some supporters following Saturday’s 4-0 defeat at home to League One strugglers Notts County.

However, Wilson says the players must take the rap – not Dunne.

“A lot of pressure needs to come off the gaffer,” said the full-back, who was suspended for the game and forced to watch on from the stands.

“The lads need to take full responsibility for their actions.

“We have to take the blame – not him – and now it’s down to us to put it right.

“The gaffer can give us instructions and pick his team, but when we cross the white line it’s down to us to perform.

“He’s been brilliant and is undoubtedly the right man for the job.

“He did a great job last season, keeping us up, and I truly believe in his philosophies about football and the club.”

Wilson said the U’s have to show more graft in Saturday’s next match at Oldham Athletic.

He felt a lack of work-rate was a key factor in last week’s setback and said: “If you don’t work hard, you’ll get punished.

“We just didn’t turn up and I don’t know why that should be the case.

“It was unacceptable and needs to be a lot better, but fortunately we’ve got another game around the corner to try and put things right. “We need a response.”

The U’s were forced to shuffle their pack last weekend, with key personnel missing.

However, Wilson said that could not be used as an excuse.

“There’s only so long we can say things like that,” he said.

“There are players who are good enough to come in and perform, so we can’t make excuses.

“Whoever gets picked needs to put a real shift in, to look to try and keep the shirt.”