Hometown boy Crawford confirms Corby departure

Jordan Crawford is leaving Corby Town after five years with his hometown club.

The 24-year-old forward has been one of the star performers for the Steelmen in recent seasons to make him a firm fans’ favourite at Steel Park.

However, he has now confirmed he is leaving and it is understood he will be joining a so far unnamed club at a higher level this summer.

Confirming his departure on Twitter, Crawford wrote: “Just wanna say a big thankyou to @corbytownfc for the last 5 years of my time there, from the players, staff and of course the fans. Loved every minute playing for my hometown club but it’s time now for a fresh start and challenge, all the best for the new season.”

The news came on the same day that boss Gary Mills confirmed he had agreed a new two-year deal with the Steelmen who are set to play in the new Northern Premier League Midlands division next season.

Mills was understandably disappointed to lose Crawford, who hit five goals in 11 games under Mills before the 2020-21 campaign was halted and ultimately brought to a close due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Steelmen manager said: “We have lost Jordon who was a big player for us.

“I felt I was getting the best out of him, he was playing unbelievably well and that has probably backfired on me because teams are now showing an interest in him.

“I think I was good for him. I would have liked him to stick with me and I think I could help him get to an even higher level than where he may be looking to go.

“But he has decided now is the time and good luck to him.

“We don’t want to be losing players like Jordon but we have and it’s my job now to bring other players in who are just as good, if not better.”

Mills will be meeting up with the other members of the Steelmen squad for the first time in months this weekend before a full return for pre-season at the end of June.