Former Northampton Town and MK Dons midfielder joins Colchester United from Crawley Town
Crawley Town midfielder Jay Williams has joined Colchester United on a permanent deal.
The 25-year-old re-signed for the club ahead of the 2025/26 season and, for large parts of the season, captained the side, having previously been a regular starter of the club’s play-off-winning side in 2023/24.
Across his two spells, Jay made just shy of 100 Red Devils appearances.
In a statement, the club said: “Everybody at the club would like to thank Jay for his contributions over the course of his two spells, and wishes him well in his future endeavours.”
Williams was brought to the club in the summer of 2023 by Scott Lindsey. In January 2025, he reteamed with Lindsey at MK Dons, before following the manager back to Broadfield Stadium in June of that year.
Replying to the club’s post on X, @ShuttleworthCT said: “No matter what, still love the bloke. My favourite player we’ve ever had, the passion was unmatched. Go well captain ❤️”
@pilate_teddy09 said: “Meh got better midfielders.”
Peter Bellamy (@peterbellamy) was expecting the news, he said: “Are there really any Crawley fans who didn’t see his departure coming?”