Colchester United new boy Joe Edwards says manager Tony Humes was a key factor in his decision to join the U’s.

The former Yeovil Town midfielder has arrived on a free transfer after agreeing a one-year deal with the U’s, with the option of a further year.

Edwards, 24, is set to fill the defensive midfield role vacated by former skipper David Fox.

And after linking up with Colchester, the former Bristol City youngster says boss Humes and his assistant Richard Hall had a big influence on his decision to sign.

Edwards told the Daily Gazette: “I had a few offers but when I met with the gaffer and Richard Hall, they impressed me a lot.

“I like the way they want to work.

“They were very keen to get me down here and played a big part in me deciding to join.

“I can’t wait to get started - I’m happy to be at Colchester and I wanted to be here from the start of pre-season.

“Now it’s a case of getting through the friendlies and looking forward to the new season.

“We have a couple of home games against Blackpool and Reading in the cup to start with and I hope the fans will get behind us.”

Edwards ended a three-and-a-half year stay at Yeovil following their relegation from League One, last season.

The U’s only just stayed up themselves last season and the midfield maestro is hoping to help steer them to a higher-placed finish, this time around.

“I played against Colchester a few times for Yeovil,” said the former Glovers captain, who made nearly 50 appearances in the Championship for the Glovers in the 2013-14 season.

“Sadly, Yeovil went down last season but Colchester stayed up and hopefully this time, it will be more comfortable for us.

“The club has some impressive facilities and it’s a very good training ground.

“There’s a good, young squad here who are very enthusiastic and keen to learn.

“We also have a few older boys here, so that helps.

“There’s a lot of young lads coming through the academy and we also have a few older boys here too, so that helps.

“Everyone’s training together at the moment and that always benefits the club and its philosophy.”

For all of the latest Colchester United news, see the Daily Gazette.