BRAINTREE Town have completed the signing of former Concord Rangers midfielder Alex Woodyard, with former Beach Boys boss Danny Cowley labeling his new addition as “fantastic”.

The industrious 22-year-old enjoyed a fine season for Concord last term, and was named the player of the year by the supporters at the end of the campaign.

However, his displays did not go unnoticed and his former manager has now moved for the England C international, after he was unsuccessful in winning a professional contract with League Two Leyton Orient.

Woodyard, a former Southend United youngster who made 15 appearances for the Shrimpers, also spoke to Colchester United about a potential move earlier this summer.

But he has now been re-united with both Danny and Nicky Cowley at Braintree, and his manager believes he still has a very bright future in the game.

“Alex coming in is fantastic for us and he’s been one we’ve been looking to bring in from day one,” said Danny Cowley.

“He did very well for us last year and I think he would have signed for us the day we got the Braintree job. “But we wanted to give him the opportunity to go to Colchester United and Leyton Orient. “We don’t want young guys to say to themselves “if only” and Alex has all the makings of a Football League player.

“He played for Southend United when he was younger and he has all the credentials to step up.

“He’ll definitely complement what we have already got in that area and add to competition for places in the heart of our midfield.

“That’s important and the players you’re competing for a place with are your friends, because it helps to drive everyone’s standards up.

“Alex had a week away with Leyton Orient abroad doing double sessions in a tough training camp, so he’s in a good place.”

Woodyard is the fourth player to join Braintree from Concord, after Matt Fry, Jeremy Walker and Taylor Miles linked up with Cowley earlier in the season, while James White also attracted interest from the Iron before committing to Concord.