Martin Rowlands said John Ward helped to convince him to join Colchester United.

The experienced Republic of Ireland international had offers from other clubs, after deciding to end his long stay at Queens Park Rangers.

But Rowlands, 32, had been speaking with U’s boss Ward about a possible move for some time.

And after initially joining on a fourth-month deal, Rowlands said what the Colchester manager said left the veteran midfielder in no doubt that the U’s was the right club for him, Rowlands said: “There were a few options but once I’d spoken to the manager a few times, it seemed the right thing to do.

“He’s a manager who’s been in the game a long time and after speaking with him, it sounds promising.

“It’s great to come in and get a fresh challenge in new surroundings and do well.

“Colchester United is a very good football club.

“I can tell that from speaking to the manager and the infrastructure being put together behind the scenes - what they’re building is fantastic.

“There aren’t many clubs at any level that are doing the things that are being done here.

“It’s a club that’s looking to go forward and I want to come in and do well.

“I felt comfortable coming here and I just want to get back playing again and playing regularly.

“I’ve played a few games at this level and the standard is much improved, compared to a few years ago.”

See Friday's Gazette for more on this story and all of the latest Colchester United news, including a full preview of their game against Sheffield United.