Dartford, ahead of their trip to Braintree Town, have announced the loan signing of Ronny Nelson from Colchester United.

The young defender joins the Darts on an initial one month loan after a spell with Torquay United. Nelson is a former member of Gillingham’s academy, and has also played for Championship Leaders Leicester’s youth teams.

This season, he has found the net thrice for Colchester’s U21 side, and as a reward took his first step into men’s football in February. He made two appearances for Torquay before returning to Essex, and has now become Ady Pennock’s second signing as Dartford manager.

Dartford have been short in numbers in defence recently, with the departed Moussa Diarra and Baris Altintop not being replaced. Nelson has also played as a left fullback, providing the potential for him to cover for Tom Clifford if needed.

The 20-year-old will likely feature in Dartford’s squad tonight, as they take on the form side of the division, Braintree Town, in what looks set to be a ‘must-not-lose’ game in regards to their survival hopes.