Ryan Austin insists he is the man to replace Jake Buxton at the heart of Burton's defence.

Buxton left Albion back in May to link up with former boss Nigel Clough at Derby, leaving new manager Paul Peschisolido needing defensive cover.

But Austin, 24, who has already made 140 appearances for the Brewers, wants to prove himself as a more than able replacement.

He told the Burton Mail, "I just can't wait for the season to start under the new regime.

"Obviously now though, with Bucko joining Derby, it's a bit of an opening in the centre-half spot, which is something I'll be looking to take.

"It's a fresh start for me as much as it is the players and I'm sure there will be no guaranteed places in the team."