Colchester bag defensive duo

[Mighty T.A.L.]

Colchester United have pounced for defensive duo Matthew Connolly and Danny Granville.

Connolly joins on a season-long loan from Arsenal, while Granville is a free transfer arrival after being released by Crystal Palace.

Teenage stopper Connolly is relishing the chance to play regular football with Colchester, after making two Carling Cup appearances for the Gunners last season.

"Colchester are a very good club and I'm delighted to join," Connolly, who was also on loan at Bournemouth last term, told the club's official website.

"I watched them a few times and they were outstanding, and so I'm looking forward to getting some games under my belt with them this season.

"I've trained with the first team at Arsenal for a few years now and you learn in all of your training sessions, particularly up against players like Thierry Henry!

"Now I'm just looking forward to playing."

Granville was let go by Palace at the end of last season after over five years at the club and he becomes Geraint Williams' sixth summer signing.

Source: Skysports