FC CLACTON skipper Wayne Chapman says he is relishing his new role in the heart of the Seasiders' defence.

The club captain is known for his heroics in midfield, leading by example with whole-hearted and industrious displays.

However, he dropped back into the defence earlier this season and hasn't looked back, as part of a settled back four alongside Lee Clowsley, Ollie Lamb and Zak Smith-Walter.

Chapman says he is enjoying his new duties and loving football again, after a less-enjoyable time before Christmas.

Clacton have won their last three games to start 2019 with a bang, most recently defeating Norwich United 2-0 at the Rush Green Bowl on Saturday.

"I wasn't really enjoying my football a few weeks ago, when results weren't going our way," he told the Gazette.

"I take it to heart so much and, as captain, feel it reflects badly on me.

"Now it's the complete opposite.

"I can't get enough of it (football) at the moment.

"I feel I'm playing well and in a much better place.

"I scored on Saturday and was named man-of-the-match, as I was at Long Melford.

"It's great for me and when you're winning, everything seems so much more enjoyable.

"I'm playing at centre-half in a settled back four and really loving it.

"We've got a great understanding and know each other's games."

Clacton are 12th in the Thurlow Nunn League premier division after Saturday's victory against Norwich.

Chapman got the ball rolling just before the interval with a header from Kyelan Marvell’s free-kick.

Adam Hampson then doubled their lead, working space for himself before slotting home.

"Hopefully we can push on now and become a force in the league," said the Seasiders captain.

"Our ultimate goal is to get promotion and even though we've left it too late this season, that will certainly be our goal next year."

Clacton are back at the Bowl this Saturday for a home match against Whitton United (kick-off 3pm).

The Suffolk side are two places and three points worse off.

"It would be great if the town really got behind us and we saw a few more supporters over there at the weekend," added Chapman.