Former South African international Mark Fish has joined Town on trial. The central defender was released by Charlton at the end of last season and will be involved at Colchester on Tuesday.

Boss Joe Royle told the club site: "Mark is a free agent and is training with us. He will join the squad for the game at Colchester and will play at least a half."

The 31-year-old started his career in South Africa with the Jomo Cosmos and the Orlando Pirates before moving to Lazio in 1996 for £1.2 million.

The 62-time international (two goals) first came to England when he joined Bolton Wanderers in 1997 for £2 million. He moved to the Valley in November 2000 for £700,000

The 6ft 4in tall defender made only eight senior appearances last season due to a troublesome ankle injury.

The Cape Town-born player won the African Nations Cup with South Africa in 1996.

Photo: Action Images

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