Matt Jay talks about how the move came about and how keen he is to get started and show everyone what he can do.
Colchester United take on Rochdale AFC in League Two, both teams are unbeaten in 2023 and will look to continue the good form on Saturday.
Matt Jay is the latest addition to Colchester’s ranks and will look to prove himself on the pitch on Saturday, however he’s very aware that it won’t come easy because of the team’s form.
"I was really looking to move because I think at the end of the season at Exeter, I probably would’ve been in the position of not having a contract and I’d have been looking to move in the summer.
"So, I think I was actively looking for a change and this opportunity came about and it’s something that I just jumped at really and I’m really happy to be here, I’ve only had a few days here so far, but everything seems really good, and I’m really excited for the challenge ahead.
"It was a tough decision because obviously I was there from such a young age, but it was a decision that had to be made, I felt like I had to move on and go and experience something new.
"The manager was a huge pull for me because he made it very clear that he really liked me as a player and as a person and I haven’t really felt that for a good couple of years, I haven’t felt that I was wanted so much so to have that feeling back was a really big pull for me.
“Anywhere across the midfield line and into the forward line, [where Jay sees himself fitting in]. I don’t think I’m going to be an out and out striker on my own, but I can certainly play up front with someone else.
"My favourite position is sort of that number ten, off the striker, but there’s obviously competition for places at the moment.
"I’m under no illusion, I’m not going to walk into this team, I need to prove myself on the pitch and yes, the manager brought me in, but I need to find a way to get into the team and stay in the team.
"If I was in the position of playing in this team for the last three games, I wouldn’t expect anyone to come in and take my place, especially in the forward areas.
"The big man scored, Chilly scored, so I cant really expect to start right away, but ultimately all I can control is what I can do on the training pitch and once I get my chance, hopefully this weekend, show everyone what I can do."
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Watch the full interview on the Colchester United Youtube Channel