Maybury happy to be back in a job

Maybury had offers in Scotland but held out for a club in England

Colchester United's new signing Alan Maybury admits it has been a struggle to get back into League football.

The 30-year-old defender has signed a deal initially until the end of the season after impressing while on trial.

He told BBC Essex: "I just want to get settled and back playing but it just shows the current financial climate is hitting football as well.

"There were clubs in Scotland who were interested but as family we decided we wanted to be south of the border."

Maybury was released by Leicester at the end of last season after a loan spell with Aberdeen.

He has made nine appearances for the Republic of Ireland and played in the Uefa Cup for Aberdeen last season but has found it a struggle to find another job this season.

He added: "I've had trials at a number of clubs but at the moment chairmen are being careful with their money, whereas in the past they might have just signed you to have another player on board."

Maybury made his debut for Colchester in the 2-1 win at Leeds is now keen to get his career back on track.

He said: "I did pre-season on my own and spent six months out of work but there was never a time when I thought I wouldn't get another club."