CHARLIE Daniels will be a 'massive addition' for Colchester United.

That's the view of U's head coach Hayden Mullins, after they snapped up the experienced left-back on a one-year deal.

Daniels, who has nearly 500 career appearances to his name many of which have come in the Premier League, has signed a contract with Colchester after spending time on trial with the club over the summer.

The 34-year-old made his U's debut after coming on as a second-half substitute against Mansfield Town on Tuesday night and boss Mullins is delighted to have the former Bournemouth defender at the club.

Mullins said: "Charlie's been training with us for the last couple of weeks.

"He's been in and around the training ground and he played a couple of friendlies.

"We know Charlie and we've had a real good look at him.

"He's a massive addition and a good plus.

"You see the quality that he brings over on that left-hand side - he's played there for years for Bournemouth in the Premier League, so it's just about getting him up to match speed.

"He brings loads to the squad and a wealth of experience and a lot of quality.

"He came on (against Mansfield) and settled us down at times and I'm really pleased to have him."

Daniels will compete with Ryan Clampin for Colchester's left-back spot.

Mullins says having the vastly-experienced defender at the U's will be huge for Clampin's development.

He said: "It's massive for Clamps, to look at Charlie Daniels who plays in that position.

"Charlie plays it with ease almost - he's a really calm, assured guy and I think Clamps will benefit from having him around."

Daniels started his career at Spurs, where he had loan spells at Chesterfield and Leyton Orient.

The Harlow-born defender left Tottenham to sign for the O's on a permanent basis in 2008 and made nearly 150 appearances for the London side, before joining AFC Bournemouth in 2011.

Daniels played his part in helping the Cherries win promotion to the Premier League under Eddie Howe and was a key member of their squad in the top flight.

He made 265 appearances for Bournemouth, with 129 of them coming in the Premier League.

Daniels had spells in League One last season for Shrewsbury Town and Portsmouth and was a free agent this summer, before joining the U's.

Daniels told the U's website: "I've really enjoyed myself in the time I have been training at Colchester United.

"I got to play a couple of games (on trial) and finally it's done and dusted. I'm really happy that I have signed and I can get going."