Alex Newby’s spell in the EFL has come to an end with League Two side Colchester United releasing the midfielder from his contract six months early.
The 28-year-old was sent on loan by The U’s in September 2023, with Altrincham sealing his services for the full 2023/24 season. the attacking midfielder’s original contract was set to expire next summer.
After making 20 appearances for The Robins and scoring 7 goals, Newby has mutually agreed to cut his contract short with the Essex side to secure a permanent move with his loan club.
Speaking to club media upon sealing his move to Moss Lane, the midfielder said: “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. “
Newby joined Colchester from Rochdale in summer 2022, and made a total of 39 appearances for the club, scoring three goals.
The Barrow-born player started his career at his hometown club alongside his twin brother Elliot. Alex then left Holker Street to play for Clitheroe and then Chorley, before making his move to the Football League with then-League One Dale.
Robins boss Phil Parkinson added: “I am delighted to say that Alex will now be a permanent fixture here at Altrincham. 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.”
Newby will continue to wear the number 30 shirt at Moss Lane, with his first game as a permanent player in Greater Manchester away to Solihull Moors next weekend.
Writer’s View
Danny Cowley seemingly did not have Alex Newby as part of his future plans in Essex and has released him to play closer to home in Altrincham. The midfielder does seem happier to play in the National League though, and has become a vital part of Phil Parkinson’s side. It is a move that benefits both parties going forward, freeing up space for Colchester to get a new player in to help them survive the drop this season.
The Greater Manchester club seems to be going from strength to strength as they try and break their way into the Football League. With Chesterfield almost certain to go up as champions this season, all eyes are now drawn to the play-off battle. Whilst Bromley and Barnet have broken away from the rest of the top seven, Alty are leading the chase with one of the league’s most exciting prospects Chris Conn-Clarke leading their bid for promotion.
Football journalist with The Real EFL since 2023. A 2024 Multimedia Journalism graduate from the University of Salford, Lewis specialises in Salford City FC and EFL coverage.
