Sutton United lose teenage starlet Junior Eccleston as he heads for the EFL

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Junior Eccleston says he is “proud” to have represented Sutton United after completing a move to League Two side Chesterfield.

The 19-year-old departs the VBS Community Stadium after breaking into the first team and establishing himself as one of the club’s brightest academy graduates.

He made 45 appearances in all competitions last season, scored his first senior goal for the club in a 2-0 win over FC Halifax Town in November, and claimed Sutton’s Young Player of the Season award.

Eccleston progressed through the club’s academy after officially joining at Under-16 level and signed his first professional contract ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.

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Determination

Speaking on his departure, Eccleston told the club: “I just want to say thank you: Sutton fans; everyone involved with Sutton for supporting me in my journey.

“It’s been I think six years now and I’m very proud to play for this club, and I wish you all the best for the future.

“I’ll definitely be looking at my phone after Saturday’s results to check the Sutton score. I wish you all the best, and thank you.”

Director of football, Terry Bullivant, added: “I’m really pleased for Junior – he deserves a move to the league.

“His determination, dedication and willingness to learn are as good as any young pro I have come across.

“We all wish him well and I’m sure he will succeed at the higher level.”

Ready

Eccleston is not the only player to have swapped Sutton for League Two this summer, with Lewis Simper joining Walsall following the expiry of his contract.

The 24-year-old midfielder leaves the U’s after a successful two-year spell.

Last season, he scored 13 goals and provided six assists, earning Sutton’s Players’ Player of the Season award for the second consecutive campaign.

Speaking after completing his move, Simper said: “I’m really hungry to be the best player that I can.

“I got some good experience at Cambridge and had a couple of years earning my trade in the National League, so I’m now ready to take the EFL in my stride and be a real important player for the club.”

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