Sutton United Football Club is delighted to confirm the permanent signing of Aldershot Town captain, Aaron Jones on a free transfer, following the expiry of his Shots’ contract.
The 31-year old defender, who is capable of playing across the backline as well as in midfield, joins the club fresh off lifting the Isuzu FA Trophy last season, and boasts bags of experience that he will now add to Steve Morison’s defence.
Born in Great Yarmouth, Jones began his career in the Ipswich Town academy and spent ten years at Portman Road, but opted to depart in 2012 in order to move across the ocean and play college soccer in the United States, joining Georgia State University. He made 36 appearances for the Panthers and notched three goals and seven assists, before making the switch to Clemson University. He continued his good form in South Carolina, making 39 appearances during his time with the Tigers and finished with four goals and seven assists.
Jones subsequently played in the Premier Development League for Carolina Dynamo before turning professional when he was drafted in the second round (33rd overall) of the 2017 MLS SuperDraft by Philadelphia Union. He signed a professional contract with the club a month later and made his professional debut with USL affiliate club Bethlehem Steel in a 3–2 defeat to Rochester Rhinos, going on to become an ever-present during his stint in Pennsylvania with 32 appearances.
However, he would depart Philly and return to the UK after the club opted against renewing his contract, with Jones making the move to local side King’s Lynn Town. He spent five years with the Linnets, making 167 appearances for the club and being a part of their rise from the Southern League to the National League in the span of just three seasons.
This preceded a move to Aldershot, reuniting with manager Tommy Widdrington where he quickly became a key part of the team. He has since gone on to appear 59 times in all competitions for the Shots, with the pinnacle of his two-year spell in Hampshire being when he got to lift the FA Trophy at Wembley Stadium, following a 3-0 win over Spennymoor Town in the final.
After completing his move to Gander Green Lane, Jones said:
“It’s a great feeling to join the club, it’s been a busy summer with things happening and moving parts but I’m delighted to be here”
Welcome to Sutton United, Aaron!
