CHAY Cooper admits Braintree Town's offer was one he could not turn down after signing for the National League new boys.

The 22-year-old rejected a new contract at Colchester United to link up with Angelo Harrop's new-look squad.

Cooper was out of contract at the U's and despite being offered a fresh deal, has decided to link up with Braintree.

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The versatile attacker says signing for newly-promoted Iron was a 'no brainer'.

Cooper told Braintree Town FC: "I've known Angelo for quite a bit.

"I think his relationship with Colchester is quite good.

"I was going to come down here a couple of seasons ago for a loan but at the time, it wasn't right.

"We've always stayed in contact and I think he sort of put the project there for me and it was a very, very positive one.

(Image: RICHARD BLAXALL)

"I think the way that the club's going is in a really good direction and he sold me a dream really.

"It was something that I couldn't turn down.

"There were a few other clubs that were very, very close to going forward, in a positive direction.

"But I just think, the ambition here from the manager and the club and the way it's going, it was a no brainer for me really."

Cooper made 21 league and cup appearances for Colchester since joining them in September, 2021.

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He played 15 times for the U’s first team last season but spent part of the second half of the 2023-24 campaign on loan at National League side, Hartlepool United and is now planning for a fresh start, at Braintree.

"The conversations with Angelo were very, very positive," added the ex-Southend United youngster.

"It's a very young, attacking and creative team, this season who like going forward and I think I'll add to that quite well.

"He told me what he wants from me this year and I think what he wants from me and the team, we'll both bring the best out of each other.

(Image: RICHARD BLAXALL)

"I'd like to think I can get some goals and assists, this season.

"I know quite a few of the players, so I think the relationships with them will work well for me and it will bring quite a good thing to the team.

"It'll be good to be with the boys and see a few new faces, a few familiar faces and just get the group going.

"We've got a few weeks until the start of the season, so it'll give us time to train together, play games and just get a real good feel factor for everyone."