Matt Jay is back in the Bay

Torquay United have pulled off a transfer coup in signing experienced Football League midfielder Matt Jay after his contract with Colchester United was cancelled by mutual consent.

Born in Torquay, Jay (28) came through the youth system at Exeter City and made his debut as a teenager in 2013. He then gained further experience in loan spells at Weston-super-Mare, Hayes & Yeading and Truro City.

Jay then established himself as a first-team regular at St James, where he remained for a decade. He switched to Colchester in January 2023 and now returns home to Torquay in a deal that runs until the summer of 2027.

“MJ is someone who I’ve known about for years,” said United manager Paul Wotton.

“He brings a wealth of experience, and he has captained a League Two promotion-winning side. He’s obviously got tremendous qualities as a football player, and he adds huge value and experience to the squad.

“He’s a forward, we needed to sign some, and I can’t wait to get working with him.

“It’s been quite a long process, but we’ve finally got there, and I’m looking forward to seeing him playing in a Torquay shirt.”