Colchester United have signed striker Chris Porter, from Sheffield United.

The 31-year-old has agreed an 18-month deal with the U's and goes into the squad for Saturday's League One match at home to Leyton Orient.

Porter has a wealth of experience, having played for Bury, Oldham, Motherwell and Derby, prior to joining the Blades in 2011.

But despite signing a new deal with Sheffield United last summer, he found first-team opportunities hard to come by at Bramall Lane, this season.

Porter said: “I just wanted to get back playing.

“I haven’t had much game time up at Sheffield United since the start of the season.

“The manager here has been very encouraging towards me and I just want to get playing.

“I signed an extension in the summer but I haven’t really been involved.

“It’s a great club with a nice stadium and nice training facilities, so it’s a no brainer really."

He has also had loan spells with Shrewsbury and Chesterfield.

For more on the U's new signings Chris Porter and Matthew Briggs, see Friday's Daily Gazette.