Colchester United have snapped up former England international Nicky Shorey on a free transfer.

The 34-year-old left-back has signed for the U's until the end of the season, having been a free agent since recently leaving Indian Super League side Pune City.

Shorey, who was born in Romford, will bring a wealth of experience to the Colchester defence, as they attempt to move up the League One table.

He has had two spells at Reading, for whom he made nearly 300 league appearances and has also played for the likes of Aston Villa, West Brom and Portsmouth.

Shorey, a free-kick specialist, won two England caps in 2007 against Germany and Brazil.

He is Kevin Keen's third signing as Colchester boss, following the arrivals of goalkeeper Jake Kean and Elliot Lee on loan earlier this month.

Former Leyton Orient defender Shorey is set to go straight into the U's squad for their trip to play Scunthorpe United, on Saturday.