Jordon Ibe joins National League side at the age of 27

Former Liverpool forward Jordan Ibe has returned to football after a two-year absence, signing for National League side Ebbsfleet United.

The 27-year-old looked destined for stardom when he became the youngest ever Football League player for Wycombe Wanderers at the age of 15.

He was picked up by Liverpool in 2012, where the winger made his Premier League debut at the age of 18.

Ibe spent time on loan with Birmingham City and Derby County during his four-year career at Anfield, where he was able to showcase his pace, power, creativity and quick feet.

In July 2016, the former England Under-21 international moved to Bournemouth and made 92 appearances before returning to Derby in 2020.

He later joined Turkish side Adanaspor before returning home to London and taking a break away from football.

It was during this time that Ibe suffered a broken leg and spoke publicly about his battle with depression, earning praise far and wide for opening up on such an important issue in today's game.

Ibe has kept himself in peak physical condition and was even seen training with fellow National League side Chesterfield over the summer.

He has now decided to return to English football, signing a contract with Ebbsfleet United and he has even been named in the squad to face Slough Town in the FA Cup on Saturday afternoon.

Speaking to the club's website, Ibe explained it was time to return to the pitch and 'show people what he can do'.

“I just want to get back out there, show people what I can do again and play football,” he said.

“I’ve worked hard to be in a position where I am able to focus on football and believe in myself and my ability to contribute on the pitch. Being back out there is where I love to be and where I’m most happy but I needed to be healthy and prepared to give myself that chance.

"The way Ebbsfleet have helped me and put a process in place so I can be ready has been really supportive. I came in and have had to back myself and prove I’m here to succeed to earn my chance.

"The gaffer and staff have built up my fitness to the point where I’m ready to go with a ball and I’m really pleased to be able to concentrate on my game while at the same time being really supported.”

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