U's secure Danns signing

Colchester have landed midfielder Neil Danns from Blackburn for a nominal fee.

Danns has returned to Layer Road on a permanent basis after spending two months on loan with The U's earlier this season.

U's boss Phil Parkinson had been keen to bring the 22-year-old back to the League One side following his impressive performances.

Parkinson managed to strike a deal with Blackburn for Danns, who has signed an 18-month contract, and is delighted to capture the midfielder.

"I'm really pleased to get Neil," Parkinson told the club's official website.

"We've been working on it for a few weeks now and it is an important signing.

"He did very well for us the last time he was here and since he went back to Blackburn he has been playing for their reserves."

Danns had come through the ranks at Ewood Park but made just seven appearances for the Premiership club.

He undertook loan stints with Blackpool and Hartlepool United last season before his temporary stay at Layer Road ultimately earned him a permanent deal with Colchester.