Livingston sign goalkeeper Shamal George from Colchester United

Livingston have announced the signing of goalkeeper Shamal George from Colchester United.

The 24-year-old has signed a four-year deal at the Tony Macaroni, with Livingston convinced they have snapped up a player with a big future ahead of him.

The goalkeeper came through Liverpool’s youth system and had loan spells at Carlisle, Tranmere and Marine before moving to Colchester two years ago.

George’s performances last season saw him names as the club’s player of the year, and also persuaded Livingston to pay a transfer fee to take him north.

Livingston manager David Martindale said: “We are absolutely delighted to get this one over the line. We have been tracking Shamal for a few months now and we have finally managed to agree a transfer fee with Colchester and a four-year contract with Shamal himself.

“Its very rare that you will see Livingston spend money on a transfer fee, but it shows you how highly we regard Shamal and the ambitions we have for him personally.

“Shamal will come in and will wear the number 1 shirt for the forthcoming season. He’s at a good age and has played enough games in senior football and performed consistently well to get our attention. He has all the attributes to kick on and really give himself the best chance possible at playing at a top, top level. I’m sure he is going to be a fantastic addition to our squad.

“Huge credit must go to Chairman Robert Wilson and Chief Executive John Ward for helping to make the funds available to make this transfer happen. Historically, we’ve always been a selling club and that doesn’t change however, having the backing of the board to be able to go and spend money on securing the services of a player to help better the squad is greatly appreciated and I’ve no doubt that backing will be rewarded with Shamal’s inclusion in the squad.

“I want to go on record thanking Colchester for their professionalism and understanding. I would also like to thank Shamal’s agents who have been tremendous in helping get this one over the line. Lastly, I want to thank Shamal himself as I know he had far more lucrative offers elsewhere but chose to continue his development with ourselves here at Livingston.”