Kemal İzzet

Kemal İzzet — Biography

Kemal "Kem" Izzet is a footballer closely identified with Colchester United's midfield in the lower divisions of English football. He played for the club from 2001 to 2013, making more than 400 league appearances, and moved into coaching after retiring as a player.

He grew up in London playing for the Sunday league side Senrab alongside future names such as Jermain Defoe, Ledley King, John Terry and Bobby Zamora, then joined Charlton Athletic's youth system but did not break into the first team. In February 2001 he went on trial with Reading, the next month he joined Colchester on a one-month loan, and on March 31, 2001, he made his debut as a substitute against Luton Town. He soon joined the club permanently; his equalizing goal against Peterborough United on April 17 was his first for Colchester. In 2001-02 he was given the club's number 10 shirt, took a place in midfield and in 2002 signed a long-term contract; in 2004 he agreed a further two-year extension. He battled wrist and ankle injuries over the years.

In 2002-03 he made 48 appearances and scored eight goals, finished second in the supporters' Player of the Year vote and won the club's Young Player of the Year award; in 2003-04 he made 56 appearances and scored three goals. After leaving Colchester he spent three years at Needham Market.