Colchester United sign defender Ryan Dickson

Colchester United have signed Ryan Dickson on a one-year contract.

The 26-year-old defender, who was a free agent after being released by Southampton, has been on trial at the Weston Homes Community Stadium this summer.

After making 30 appearances in three seasons with the Saints, Dickson has said that he is happy to make a fresh start at Colchester.

"Last year was a frustrating one for me, so I am ready to get back to my top form and help Colchester push on," he told the club's official website.

"It's good to be settled now and I've been happy since I first turned up here.

"There's a good squad here, the right philosophy in the way to play and a great work rate from all of the lads."

Dickson played six times during a loan spell at Bradford City last season, scoring once in the process.