FORMER Colchester United forward Gavin Massey has signed for AFC Fylde.

The 31-year-old has linked up with the National League side, after leaving Port Vale at the end of last season.

Massey made 178 league and cup appearances for Colchester during his four-and-a-half year stint with the club, scoring 21 goals.

Massey told the AFC Fylde website: “It feels good to be here. I’ve had conversations for a good few weeks now, I’ve trained today and it’s a good group so I’m excited.

READ MORE: U's received 'really good offers' for forward in window

“I started off as a winger and moved around the pitch playing in numerous positions and I’ve played plenty in the EFL so hopefully I can help the group crack on this season.

“I trained today and it’s a young, feisty and talented group so with my experience, I just want to add quality and experience.

"The gaffer has been really positive towards me which I haven’t had for a while.

"After I spoke to him, it became a no-brainer to come here, help the team and get back to enjoying my football.”

With his skill, versatility and positive attitude, Massey quickly endeared himself to Colchester fans after initially arriving at the club as a fresh-faced teenager on loan from Watford in January 2012, snapped up by John Ward.

(Image: PAGEPIX)

Massey twice scooped the Colchester United 'Players' Player of the Year' accolade before leaving to join Leyton Orient, in 2016.

AFC Fylde boss Chris Beech told the club's website:  “Gavin brings a heap of EFL experience having great success at Colchester and Wigan Athletic and he can play in a variety of positions which provides us with much-needed depth.

“We’re excited to see not only how Gavin performs, but how he impacts the dressing room with his know-how and professionalism on and off the pitch, his game management and his influence on our younger players in crucial parts of their game.

“He’s added pace, goals and assists wherever he has been throughout his career and it’s a real statement for us to sign someone of this pedigree.”