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Cambridge United have signed striker Ryan Charles on a one-year deal following his release from Rushden.

Charles, 21, made 23 starts for Diamonds after joining from Luton Town 12 months ago.

Used predominantly as a wide attacker last season, he scored seven goals in the Blue Square Bet Premier.

"He excelled at Rushden in a front three and will give us the flexibility to play different systems," U's boss Jez George told .

"Ryan has shown a real desire to join us, despite the interest of other clubs, and we are looking forward to working with him."

Charles, who started his career with the Hatters and had loan spells with Kettering and Kidderminster before heading to Nene Park, added: "I'm happy to be here, to be part of a big club with a massive fan base, and the start of something new.

"I've had other offers but I've turned them down because I believe in the club and what we can achieve next season."

He becomes the sixth player to leave the financially stricken Northamptonshire side this summer.

In contrast Cambridge, who are undergoing a cost cutting exercise, have now made five signings since the conclusion of last season.