We are delighted to confirm that midfielder Will Collar has signed a new three-year deal with the Club, extending his stay at Edgeley Park until 2025.
The 25-year-old’s deal was due to expire at the end of season, but having emerged as a key figure in our National League title win under Dave Challinor he has now committed his immediate future to County, as we prepare to re-enter the Football League.
Will joined the Club on a free transfer from Hamilton Academical in February 2021, linking up with former manager Simon Rusk who he had previously worked with during his time in Brighton’s academy.
After registering one goal in his first 30 appearances for the Club, the midfielder took his game to extraordinary new heights following the appointment of Dave Challinor in November, scoring ten goals and registering 11 assists in his final 26 appearances of the season.
His performances have seen him become a firm fan favourite at Edgeley Park, forming part of a formidable midfield trio alongside Ryan Croasdale and Antoni Sarcevic, and it was his goal at the Cheadle End that secured our 2-0 win against Halifax, and with it promotion back to the Football League.
First Team Manager Dave Challinor said:
“Since I came to the Football club if you asked everyone with an association with, or a supporter of the club, which player had had the biggest transformation, Will would be right up there in most people’s views.
“He’s got himself fully fit, has worked his socks off and has shown great quality in a position that has given him license to show a bit more of his game. For him to commit his long term future to the club is a huge signing and I really believe there is more to come from him, and that he can play a big part in the Club’s journey over the next three years.
“His combination in that midfield area last season was huge in terms of our identity and the step up into the EFL is one we all think he’ll take in his stride, and we are all looking for another big contribution from him.”
Director of Football Simon Wilson said:
“Will’s progress last season was beyond expectations and played a big part in the team’s eventual success. He’s worked really hard and risen to the challenges we have set him, where we are maybe starting to see signs of his true potential.
“This deal contracts him to the club through his peak years and I’m excited to see if he can kick on further. He is a great fit to what we are doing and delighted he has committed to be here as we try to establish a group of players capable of rising through the divisions”
