BRAINTREE Town manager Danny Cowley believes the arrival of Alex Woodyard is a “fantastic signing” for the club after finally getting his man.

Woodyard spent part of pre-season with League Two side Leyton Orient and also spoke to Colchester United about a potential move, earlier this summer.

But the 22-year-old midfielder has now agreed to join Vanarama National League side Braintree, where he has been reunited with his former Concord Rangers boss Cowley.

The Iron boss says Woodyard’s arrival will add to competition for midfield places – and feels the former Southend United youngster has a big future in the game.

Cowley said: “Alex coming in is fantastic for us and he’s been one we’ve been looking to bring in from day one.

“He did very well for us last year and I think he would have signed for us the day we got the Braintree job.

“But we wanted to give him the opportunity to go to Colchester United and Leyton Orient.

“We don’t want young guys to say to themselves ‘if only’ and Alex has all the makings of a Football League player.

“He played for Southend United when he was younger and he has all the credentials to step up.

“He’ll definitely complement what we have already got in that area and add to competition for places in the heart of our midfield.

“That’s important and the players you’re competing for a place with are your friends, because it helps to drive everyone’s standards up.

“Alex had a week away with Leyton Orient abroad doing double sessions in a tough training camp, so he’s in a good place.”

Cowley has also confirmed that Braintree are in talks with former Port Vale winger Wilson Carvalho.

Carvalho scored the Iron’s winner in their 1-0 victory at Ebbsfleet United, in their final pre-season friendly last weekend.

“Wilson is someone who we’re talking to,” added Cowley.

“He’s had a bit of a stop-start pre-season – he spent a bit of time with Yeovil and there was interest from Hearts, plus his partner gave birth a week or so ago.

“Wilson’s had a good education and he did very well for Corby in their promotion season.

“He’s very quick and he can beat players – he’s very good in a counter-attacking situation.”

Meanwhile, Braintree goalkeeper Nathan McDonald is on the verge of a loan move to a Ryman Premier club.