OWEN Garvan will bring Colchester United more quality in midfield, according to boss Tony Humes.

The former Ipswich Town and Crystal Palace midfielder has signed for the U’s on a short-term deal until January.

Garvan trained with his new team-mates for the first time this morning and is set to go straight into their side for the game against Scunthorpe United on Saturday.

Humes said: “We’ve been able to bring in some experience in Owen Garvan.

“He’s a very good footballer who will give us more quality in midfield.

“When we play in a 4-3-3, he can fit into any of those positions.

“He’ll get on the ball, make us play and get us passing.

“He’ll link up with players and give us that quality and experience.

“He’s played a lot of football at a high level.

“He’ll be in the squad and we’ll see how he is.

“He’s a good player to have coming into the club. It’s a very positive move for us.

“I think he’s been training with different clubs.

“He’s trained a lot without playing matches, so it’s more about match fitness.

“He’s here to challenge for a place and the others have to raise their game.

“He was always in different age groups and played for the first team at 18.

“I know him, without having really worked with him much in the past.”

Garvan has been searching for a new club since leaving Premier League club Crystal Palace, at the end of last season.

He has not placed a competitive game since his loan spell at Championship club Bolton Wanderers, at the start of the 2014-15 campaign.

“Unfortunately for Owen, he hasn’t been able to get another club at that level,” said Humes.

“But he’s become available for ourselves and we’ve given him a short-term contact until January.

“He’s a high-quality player and we’re glad to have him on board.

“We knew he was available but he’s been looking at what opportunities there were for him.

“I think this is his first concrete offer from anyone so we’re glad he’s joined us.”

For a full interview with U’s new boy Owen Garvan and a full preview of Colchester’s game with Scunthorpe, see Friday’s Daily Gazette.