GEORGE Messum says there are enough leaders in Oxford University’s squad to help them secure a place in the Varsity Match history books without him on the pitch.

The 24-year-old is ineligible to face Cambridge University this afternoon after starting a new degree in September.

Messum previously read historical studies, but his new history of art course does not meet the criteria set out for Blues sport eligibility, agreed by the Oxford and Cambridge Joint Blues Committee.

He remains club captain and believes Oxford, who will be led by centre Henry Lamont, have exactly what it takes to win for a record sixth successive time.

Messum said: “We have got leaders across the park and that is what has been a pretty key inherent characteristic of this squad.

“I am incredibly confident and trusting, which I think is a key thing, that they will do a fantastic job on the day and be able to express what we are about as a club.”

Messum has known of his ineligibility since September, but played in the majority of Oxford’s warm-up matches.

While he is frustrated about not being able to play, the flanker says ensuring his teammates are fully prepared for battle has helped to motivate him.

He added: “It was disappointing, but it has been a case of putting our best foot forward and the guys have been my complete motivation.

“Everything has been about getting them right and putting them in the best situation so my individual disappointment is pretty irrelevant at this point.”