Frank Nouble insists he is ready to embrace being one of the more experienced members of Colchester United’s squad.

The 26-year-old, who signed for the U’s on a two-year deal from their League Two rivals Newport County earlier this month, boasts nearly 250 league and cup appearances during his professional career to date.

Nouble has played in the Premier League for West Ham United, featuring alongside the likes of international star such as Rob Green, Matthew Upson and Scott Parker during his time at Upton Park.

The well-travelled 6ft 3in striker has played in all of English football’s top four divisions and after joining John McGreal’s youthful squad, says he is glad to put his knowledge to good use at the JobServe Community Stadium.

Nouble told the Daily Gazette: “I know I’m up there as one of the older members of the squad but that doesn’t faze me.

“The boys have seen me play at different places and I hope I can have a positive influence within the squad.

“The last club where I stayed longer than a year was Ipswich.

“The main focus for me right now is to do well at Colchester and live up to my potential.

“If that happens, then I’m sure everyone will be happy and everything will fall into place after that.”

Nouble snubbed an offer to stay at Newport to join Colchester, after seeing his contract expire this summer.

The former Ipswich Town attacker, who has also played for the likes of Coventry City, Southend United and Wolves, netted ten times in 52 league and cup appearances for the Exiles in his solitary season in South Wales.

Nouble played in a variety of attacking positions for Michael Flynn’s side, helping them to a mid-table finish and also enjoy an exciting FA Cup run which culminated in them taking on Premier League side Spurs in a replay at Wembley, after holding the North London side at Rodney Parade.

“I really enjoyed my time at Newport,” added Nouble, who started out as a youngster in Chelsea’s academy.

“I was only there a year but I had a good time there.

“Michael Flynn and everyone else were brilliant but my contract was up, something had to be sorted out and I had to make a decision.”