Perkins was sent off in Rochdale's play-off semi-final with Darlington

Colchester have completed the signing of Rochdale midfielder David Perkins for an undisclosed six-figure fee.

The 26-year-old started his career with Morecambe before joining Rochdale 18 months ago.

He scored six goals in 45 appearances for Dale last season, helping them reach the League Two play-offs.

Perkins told BBC Essex: "The move did come as a bit of a surprise but once I spoke to the manager and chairman I made my mind up I wanted to come here."

His arrival takes Colchester's spending to more than �500,000 in 24 hours, following the purchase of striker Steven Gillespie from Cheltenham.

Perkins said: "I've seen the new stadium and the proposed new training facilities and it has the feel of a club moving forward, wanting to get back into the Championship."