Cambridge United have signed defender David Partridge on a contract until June 2011 as a replacement for the departed Wayne Hatswell.The 31-year-old had been looking for a club after leaving Irish side St Patrick's Athletic and replaces Hatswell who has signed for Dundalk.
Partridge told BBC Radio Cambridgeshire: "I could have gone back into the Football League.
"But I've worked with Martin Ling before and that was a big draw."
Partridge's previous clubs include Bristol City, Brentford, Dundee United and Motherwell.
After two years in Ireland he was keen to join a club closer to home.
"I've been in Ireland, living on my own, but my family are in Essex so it will be good to live at home," he said.
Hatswell made his final appearance for the U's in last Saturday's 1-0 defeat to York after two years at the Abbey.
Partridge knows he has a lot to live up to and will have to produce his best form.
"Wayne had a great game on Saturday and has been an excellent servant for the club so I have big boots to fill," he said.
Source: BBC Sport
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