Noah Chilvers said he has ‘loved every minute’ of his 14-year journey at Colchester United, as part of an emotional farewell to the club.

It was announced on Wednesday evening that Chilvers had signed for Scottish Premiership side Ross County, for an undisclosed fee after he turned down ‘a new contract’ to stay at the U’s, according to CU-FC.COM.

And the 23-year-old, who scored his 24th and final goal in his last game for Colchester, during a 1-1 draw with Crewe Alexandra, which secured the club's EFL status for another season, posted a message on his social media.

It said: “14 years at this club, what a journey it’s been. I’ve loved every minute of it.

"Ever since I joined at the age of nine, my dream has been to play for Colchester United, and to say that I managed to do that 198 times fills me with pride.

“This is the club where I’ve met friends for life, and I’m forever grateful to the club for the support they’ve always given me and the memories we’ve created here that me and my family will always cherish.

“Thank you to you fans that have supported me through the highs and lows. Your support means more to me than you know!

"I’ll never forget the reception I got after my last game vs Crewe. I also want to thank the Chairman, the managers I’ve played under, and all of the staff throughout the club for their guidance and constant belief in me.

“My one regret is that I wasn’t able to be part of a successful team for the club, but I’m sure success is coming soon with the Gaffer and Nicky in charge. I’m proud of what I was able to give to the club in real times of need.”

Chilvers came on as a substitute in March 2019, marking his professional debut. Just five months later, the-then 18-year-old scored the winning penalty during Colchester’s shock shootout win over Crystal Palace in the League Cup. It was a moment that aided their run towards that season’s quarter-finals stage.

During the 2020/21 season, though he signed a short-term loan deal at Bath City, Chilvers remained a Colchester player and won the club’s player of the year, young player of the year and goal of the season. He would then go on to win the latter two awards once more.

Chilvers’ new team, Ross County, open their Scottish Premiership season this weekend.

They travel to Motherwell, before they host Dundee United on August 10 and visit Ibrox on August 24, to play Rangers.