Sam Walker will face stiff competition for his first team place this season, following the arrival of fellow keeper Chris Lewington yesterday.

The experienced Lewington, who rattled up 143 senior appearances for his last club Dagenham & Redbridge, became the U’s third signing of the day, following on from right-back Sean Clohessy and left-back Ben Gordon.

Lewington played 45 games for the League Two Daggers last season, 43 of them in the league, but was keen for a fresh challenge after five years at Victoria Road.

Manager Joe Dunne enthused: “Chris (Lewington) was very consistent for Dagenham & Redbridge.

“But he got to the stage where he wanted to move on.

“I’m pleased that it has all happened very quickly,” added Dunne.

Lewington, 25, said: “As soon as I got the phone call from Colchester, I came down to look around.

“The facilities are fantastic, it’s a great set-up, and I’m looking forward to a new challenge, at a new level for me.”