Derry City's Matt Ward returns to Ipswich Town following loan spell

Matt Ward celebrating his goal against UCD

Matt Ward celebrating his goal against UCD Credit: John-Paul McGinley (ETPhotos)

Derry City has confirmed the return of 19-year-old Matt Ward to his parent club, Ipswich Town.

The young player had joined Derry City on loan from the English side in February.

During his loan spell, Ward made three appearances for the Candystripes, coming off the bench in each match.

He also netted his first goal for the club in the impressive 4-1 victory over UCD last weekend.

Ruaidhri Higgins, the manager of Derry City, spoke highly of Ward and his potential, saying, "Matty has been a pleasure to work with, and at just 19-years-old, he has the potential to do well for himself in the game."

Although Ward was initially due to return to Ipswich in June, his departure was expedited by a couple of weeks to facilitate his preparation with Ipswich for the new season.

Higgins expressed delight at Ward's first goal for Derry City, describing it as a "brilliant way to finish his loan spell."