Roberts made over 80 appearances for Chester

New Cambridge United signing Kevin Roberts admits that he is glad to have escaped the chaos at Chester City.

The 20-year-old defender has settled his contract at the Deva Stadium as a result of City's financial problems.

And, after joining the U's, he told BBC Radio Cambridgeshire: "It's been a massive relief to get out of Chester and be able to concentrate on football.

"All the lads would talk about is whether or not they'd be getting their wages, so it was really hard."

The Liverpool-born Chester academy product has signed a short-term contract at the Abbey Stadium, which will take him through to the summer.

Roberts, who can also play in midfield as well as at full-back or centre-half, is hoping that his versatility will help him to earn a longer deal.

"Centre-back is probably my best position," he said. "But I'm not the tallest so some people might frown upon that.

"Hopefully my versatility will help me to get a chance and I'll play anywhere on the pitch."

Chester, who have been charged by the Football Conference for failing to fulfil their fixtures, face being thrown out of the league when discussions resume on Thursday.

But Roberts says that he hopes a resolution can be found to allow the club the continue playing matches.

"I've been lucky to get out," he said. "I have loads of friends who could lose their jobs so hopefully things will go well for them."

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