The U's were 23rd in the table when Lambert took over in October

Colchester United boss Paul Lambert praised his players despite them missing out on the play-offs.

Saturday's 1-0 defeat by Leeds leaves them 11th in League One, 10 points shy of a qualifying spot.

"We were right down there in 23rd, but because we gave it a fight people thought we should be up there, but we've just fallen short," Lambert said.

"The lads have done terrifically well to get themselves out of it and next season we'll push on."

Despite their season heading towards a mid-table finish, Lambert promised the U's fans he would not allow his players to ease into the summer break.

"We've still got a handful of games left this season, but although we've just fallen short, I don't want to accept second best," he said.

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