BEN Garner believes new signing Ellis Iandolo will be a 'really strong addition' for Colchester United.

The U's have secured their first new addition of the summer after snapping up the versatile left-back from League Two rivals Swindon Town, for an undisclosed fee.

Iandolo played under Garner at Swindon, during the Colchester head coach's time as boss at the County Ground.

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The 25-year-old played in 52 of the 56 games that Garner presided over as Robins boss, in the 2021-22 season - and the U's boss is delighted to have him on board.

Gazette: Ellis Iandolo

Garner said: "We were really pleased to get Ellis Iandolo signed.

"I think it's a really good signing for the club.

"He's someone that obviously I know well and some of the other staff know well as well, so we were really pleased to get Ellis done.

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"He's a talented player who can play in several different positions and give us great versatility and also good intelligence.

"He's at a good age, good experience and he's a great character, so I think he'll be a really strong addition for us."

Gazette:

Iandolo had spent his entire professional career with Swindon, making 130 outings for them and scoring three goals.

The Kent-born defender joined the Wiltshire club in the summer of 2015, having impressed in a trial.

Meanwhile, U's fans have been having their say on social media, following Iandolo's arrival as Colchester's first summer signing:

Adam: 'Really good choice by the U's. Versatile player who plays LB and CM when called upon. Didn't have the strongest season last season but under Garner he flourished, and should hopefully flourish again under his wing. Hopefully some more signings coming up'.

 

Dave B: 'Very good 1st addition. Versatility will be helpful. He played some of his best football under Garner & obviously someone the manager can trust. Nice to see a player coming in who knows the style of play Garner wants, so should settle in fast. Hopefully, he can stay injury free'

Si Collinson: 'Seems a decent signing. Can play left wing back where at Swindon it was his preferred slot under Garner, so hopefully means we are still looking to play three at the back which proved successful in the run in last year'