JOHN Mousinho has been tipped to go into management when he hangs up his boots.

The Oxford United skipper has been influential in the side’s five-game unbeaten run, which has coincided with his move from centre half to midfield.

During the upturn in form the U’s, who had the joint worst defensive record in Sky Bet League One, have conceded just once.

United boss Karl Robinson hailed the role played by Mousinho, describing the 32-year-old as his on-field gaffer.

He said: “Mous sitting in midfield has been a captain and a manager.

“He will probably manage one day.

“He has more of an understanding of the game from a tactical aspect, he’s a tremendous motivator and that’s a path he will go on one day.

“To have someone like him right in the middle of the pitch is great.

“Having him in front of Rob Dickie and Curtis Nelson, with Simon Eastwood behind is like having two shields either side of the centre backs.”