Former Liverpool youngster Jordon Ibe has signed for a new club in the eighth tier of English football, adding a surprise chapter to his nomadic career.
When Ibe joined the Reds in December 2011, he was a 16-year-old of whom huge things were expected, with some tipping him to become a bigger talent than Raheem Sterling.
The winger’s spell at Liverpool wasn’t a success, though, and he eventually departed in 2016 after making 58 appearances and scoring four goals.
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After spells with Bournemouth and Derby, and a move to Swedish club Umea FC falling through due to work permit issues after a successful trial, Ibe has sealed a move to eighth-tier English team Sittingbourne FC, with the club confirming his arrival in a statement:
“We’re proud to announce that Sittingbourne FC has been entrusted with supporting Jordon on his journey to rediscover the joy of football. After discussions between Jordon, his agent and the club, it was agreed that Sittingbourne provides the ideal environment with our recent successes and strong team culture to help him thrive once again.
“Jordon was influenced by the many positive things he’s heard about the club, and he believes this is the perfect place to rebuild momentum and showcase his talent. We’re delighted to play a part in helping him get back to where he belongs in the game.”
It has been sad to see Ibe’s career fail to kick on, in terms of him not reaching his potential after so much early hype.
Back in 2021, the Englishman opened up about his battles with mental health, with his off-field struggles playing a part in him not managing to be the player so many expected.
“I want to apologise to all my fans around the world,” he wrote.
“I’ve found myself in a dark place, due to suffering with depression. It’s no scheme for the media or to have my name in your mouths, I just find things hard truly.
“I appreciate all the love and messages from everyone. Times are hard in general due to this pandemic. I have the full support from my family and Derby County Football Club.
“I will fix myself and this situation, which I’m 100 percent committed to. Not only for my family, my friends and my beauteous daughter, but for me.
“Much love to every single person. Jordon Ibe.”
With all due respect to Sittingbourne, nobody would have predicted that Ibe would be playing for them at the age of 29, possibly even expecting him to be in the England setup.
But hopefully, he is happy there and manages to enjoy a successful spell, continuing his career for as long as possible.
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