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Colchester United have signed defender Ryan Dickson on a one-year deal following his release by Southampton.

The 26-year-old, who has been on trial at the U's this summer, played six times while on loan at Bradford last term, scoring once.

The left-back made 30 appearances for the Saints across three seasons.

"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

"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."

Meanwhile, winger Drey Wright, 18, has signed a new three-year deal, following his first professional campaign last season, when he scored three goals in 23 games.