Ross Killock has praised skipper George Horan for leading by example in the buoyant Blues’ six-game unbeaten run.

Horan had been a bit-part player this season but has been outstanding since returning to the starting side in the 3-3 draw with Lincoln City before Christmas, partnering Killock in the last four games.

“I’m really enjoying playing with George because he’s a real old school, no nonsense defender and he talks to me a lot through the game,” said the 19-year-old.

“George is a proper leader and that’s exactly what we need in the situation we are in.”

Horan, 31, and Killock, on loan from Championship club Leeds United, were stand-outs in the 2-1 home win over Barnet and the 1-0 win at Woking.

“I think the back four did really well in both games but the whole team has been defending,” said Killock.

“We have been pressing from the front and Jamie Reed has been outstanding with the effort he has been putting in.”

Huddersfield-born Killock, whose brother Shane plays for Skrill North side Harrogate Town, linked up with Leeds aged 15.

He had a spell on loan at Alfreton Town last season and has made nine appearances for the Blues since arriving on loan in October.

Killock credits the arrival of new manager Steve Burr with giving the whole club a lift and believes the side can kick on and start climbing away from the drop zone.

“The new gaffer didn’t say a lot before the Barnet game but he told us he wanted us to go out and put in 110% effort and give it our best and that’s exactly what the lads did.

“You look at what he did with Kidderminster last year and you know he is a quality manager.

“When a new manager comes in, all the lads want to work extra hard to try and impress and keep hold of their shirts.”

Killock, who has improved with each game, will remain with the Blues until the end of the current campaign and is looking forward to continuing his development.

“I’m really enjoying it here and I have loved every minute of it,” he said.

“The club has got a great fan base and I speak to the coaches at Leeds and they are telling me that being here is doing me the world of good.

“I would much rather be playing Conference football than be playing in the under 21s league. You have to perform every week because if not then quality players like Paul Linwood or Michael Kay will take your place.

“Experience is vital for young players and I don’t think there is anywhere else I would rather be playing my football at the moment.”