Ex-Liverpool star who cost 15m makes National League debut five years after Prem stint
The resurgence of Jordon Ibe continued on Saturday as the former Liverpool prospect made his National League debut.
Ibe, 28, made headlines in October when he joined fifth-tier Ebbsfleet United in their efforts to join the English Football League. And after a handful of cup appearances for the Fleet, his comeback took another step when he came off the bench for a late cameo in the televised clash against Oldham.
The winger was unable to make the desired impact during his five minutes among the action as Ebbsfleet saw out a 0-0 stalemate at Stonebridge Road. But it was nonetheless a major moment for the man who set Bournemouth back a club-record £15million in 2016.
READ MORE: Ex-Liverpool star who cost £15m joins National League side after 14 months without club
READ MORE: Liverpool youngster Conor Bradley hit by family tragedy just days after star performance
Ibe came through the ranks at Charlton and Wycombe Wanderers before moving to Anfield as a 16-year-old in 2012. The youngster rose through the ranks and was capped for England at numerous youth levels, earning widespread plaudits as one to watch for the future.
And although Ibe's career hasn't panned out quite how those premonitions might have foretold, fans were delighted to see the former starlet back on the English scene. There were concerns for Ibe when he left Turkish club Adanaspor in 2022 after a single appearance, then took 18 months out of the sport.
Which one Premier League outcast is the worst case of unfulfilled potential? Let us know in the comments section below.
Read More
Related Articles
Read More
Related Articles
"Great to see you back on the pitch, Jordan," wrote one fan on X (formerly Twitter). "You are a hero and example for all of those who suffer with their mental health."
Another supporter praised: "He's been through some tough stuff as a sensitive young man so really good to see him playing again. Wish him all the best."
Join the Daily Star's WhatsApp for the sexiest headlines, showbiz gossip and lots more
The Daily Star is now on WhatsApp and we want you to join us!
Through the app, we'll send you the sassiest showbiz stories, some naught headline and a seismic smattering of aliens...along with the latest breaking news of course.
To join our community, all you have to do to join is click on this link, select 'Join Chat' and you're in!
No one will be able to see who has sign up and no one can send messages except for the Daily Star team. We also treat our community members to competitions, special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners.
If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose Exit group. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
Ibe's last appearance in the English league system took place in December 2020 when he made a cameo for Derby County during a Championship clash against Stoke. Ebbsfleet are currently in the midst of a battle against relegation from the National League but have a potentially potent asset ready to stave off the drop ahead of this season's run-in.
ncG1vNJzZmivp6x7pa3IpbCsrJGne6S7ja6iaKugpL%2B1e8Wopq2akaG5cLjIr5yrqJ%2BkuW61wZ5kp5mknryvrctmo56Zl6qybrHBm6qfpJWawW5%2FkWlramhnZg%3D%3D