Ryan Dickson, having rejected the offer of a new contract at Colchester United, has joined League One rivals Crawley Town instead.

Dickson arrived at the Weston Homes Community Stadium last summer, on a one-year deal, although his solitary season with the U’s was at times dogged by illness.

The ex-Southampton left-back began the season well, before being struck down with a mystery virus. Everton loanee Luke Garbutt was recruited, and impressed during his stay from Goodison Park.

Following Garbutt’s departure (recalled by Everton), Dickson returned to play a key role in keeping the U’s in League One during the last few months of the season.

But the 27-year-old has decided to move on again this summer, signing a two-year contract with Crawley this afternoon.

Dickson told the Red Devils’ official website: “I know this league well and I definitely feel the club is capable of challenging for the play-offs next season.

“It’s a really exciting new challenge for me and I can’t wait for it to start.”