Southend United have today signed Colchester United defender Pat Baldwin on a free transfer.

The Blues have moved to bolster their defensive options ahead of the closure of the January transfer window by signing the U's centre-back until the end of the season in a permanent deal.

Baldwin, 29, returns to Roots Hall for a second time having previously spent a period on loan during the 2009/10 season when he made 18 appearances scoring one goal.

The former Chelsea trainee signed for Colchester in 2002 and went on to make 242 appearances, scoring twice.

A toe injury has struck Baldwin however this season with his time on the pitch limited to just 6 appearances in all competitions.

Baldwin will be available for Tuesday's npower League Two clash with Swindon Town and takes Southend's business this window to six signings.