Colchester midfielder Payne sees long future with U's

Colchester United midfielder Jack Payne is expressing optimism about his long-term future with the club as he prepares to reach a significant milestone. The 31-year-old creative midfielder will make his 100th appearance for Colchester this weekend. Payne joined the Essex outfit in 2024 and was named player of the season in the 2024-2025 campaign.

He also earned a spot in the EFL League Two Team of the Year that year. Payne has scored 22 goals and provided 18 assists in his 99 appearances for the club so far. Payne shared that playing 100 games for one club shouldn't have taken as long as it did for him, but he is pleased to have reached the milestone. He enjoys his time at Colchester and hopes to make many more appearances for the club.

Payne has previously played for several other clubs, including Southend United, Huddersfield Town, Lincoln City, Swindon Town, and Charlton Athletic. He feels settled at Colchester, and the club suits him well. Colchester United manager Danny Cowley mentioned that the club received transfer bids for Payne during the summer window but ultimately decided to keep him.

Payne acknowledged the transfer interest as flattering but emphasized that staying at Colchester is his priority. He remains confident that his performances will continue to contribute to the team's success.