ALEX Newby has left Colchester United and signed for National League side Altrincham.

The 28-year-old midfielder has been on loan at the Robins since last September, making 20 appearances in all competitions and scoring six goals.

Newby has now signed for Altrincham on a permanent basis, after his contract with the U's was cancelled by mutual consent.

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Newby told the Altrincham website: “I'm delighted to get a permanent move to Alty sorted.

"I've really enjoyed the last few months here and I want to finish what we started.

"The club is only going in one direction and to be part of that journey and the chance to make history at this club is an opportunity I couldn't walk away from.

"Massive thanks to the gaffer and Sorvs for having faith in me - and the supporters, who have made me feel at home here, right from the start."

 

Newby made a total of 39 league and cup appearances for Colchester after joining them from Rochdale in the summer of 2022.

He was a regular for the U's last season but found opportunities hard to come by in the early part of the season, leading to him leaving on loan for Altrincham.

Altrincham manager Phil Parkinson told the club's website: “I am delighted to say that Alex will now be a permanent fixture here at Altrincham. 

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"This signing demonstrates the huge forward steps we have made in comparison to last season and year-on-year improvements here at the football club.

"Last season we were trying to rebuild our ravaged squad in January; this season we have just made it stronger.

"Last season we lost Elliot Newby to recall, this season we have signed Alex Newby permanently.

"He is a player with vast League experience and the sacrifices he's made to be part of something we believe to be quite special speaks volumes to me.

 

"A project that all the players, staff and supporters have bought into and unequivocally believe in. A journey to the EFL.

"This could not have been achieved without the board supporting my calls and backing our judgement on these players.

"Without our board we could not do what we do now. Their vision to see what we do and give support to allow us to act on it has enabled us to produce what you are all enjoying at the moment.

"A team who you are all proud of, that is improving season on season.

"Welcome to the Robins permanently, Newbs."