Forgotten Premier League star makes comeback for National League side in FA Cup

The winger was regarded as one of English football's next big things after joining Liverpool aged 16 and making 58 appearances for the Reds.

After loan spells with Derby and Birmingham City, Ibe joined Bournemouth for a fee of £15million and making 92 appearances, before joining Derby on a free transfer at the end of his Cherries' contract in 2020.

During his time at the Rams, Ibe made just one first team appearance and spoke of the depression that he suffered at Pride Park and throughout his career.

After one season, his contract was canceled by mutual consent, allowing him to join Turkish side Adanaspor in January 2022, however he failed to make an appearance there before leaving later that year.

Since then, Ibe has suffered more with depression and broke his leg, before Ebbsfleet announced the signing of the 27-year-old, before throwing him straight into the matchday squad for their FA Cup Fourth Qualifying Round clash with Slough Town.

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Speaking to the Ebbsfleet United website, Ibe said: "I just want to get back out there, show people what I can do again and play football.

"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.

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"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."