Ipswich Town youngster Nico Valentine rejoins National League North side Needham Market on loan

Needham Market have sealed the return of Nico Valentine on loan from Ipswich Town.

The attacker initially joined the Marketmen in November last year and scored two goals before his time at Bloomfields was cut short by injury.

However, the 18-year-old has remained in contact with Needham assistant Tom Rothery throughout the summer and a deal has now been struck for Valentine to rejoin the club.

Valentine, who suffered an injury during pre-season and is unlikely to be available for selection until the end of the month, told the Needham website: “I enjoyed it a lot last season, and I think over the summer I had some time to think what I wanted to do with my next step.

“I think this is the best step forward, so I'm looking forward to getting back and helping the team on the pitch.”

Rothery added: “Nico is a really good addition and from our point of view it’s somebody we have worked with before so we know what he will add to us.

“Personally for me anybody who comes in now I think that is imperative that we know exactly what they will offer and add.

“He’s a really nice lad and popular in the changing room, still came to games last season despite being injured and has been at games this season too so he’s well known around the club and clearly he’s invested and interested in us too.”

Valentine’s return will be a lift for everyone connected with Needham following Saturday’s narrow 1-0 defeat at home to Farsley Celtic in the Vanarama National League North.

Kevin Horlock’s side will return to action on Saturday when they take on St Albans City at home in the second qualifying round of the Emirates FA Cup.