Done Deal
BOURNE AGAIN
Jordon Ibe completes Derby free transfer on two-year deal and reveals battle with depression following Bournemouth spell
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DERBY COUNTY have confirmed the signing of Jordon Ibe on a two-year deal.
SunSport told you the 24-year-old was set to join the Rams on a free transfer this week.
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Ibe has returned to Pride Park after being released by Bournemouth at the end of last season.
He made 24 appearances for Derby while on loan with them during the 2014-15 campaign.
And after putting pen to paper, he admitted he has "unfinished business" at the club.
Speaking to RamsTV, the winger said: "It feels terrific to return, I have unfinished business here.
"I remember the fans here; they were like a twelfth man on the pitch for home games and the atmosphere was amazing.
"I also remember some of the goals I got too.
"I feel like this, coming to Derby, was the best choice for me.
"I had a great six months here before and I thought it was the best place to come."
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Before he added: "I am hungry to get on the pitch and get involved in my first training session, as it has been a while.
"I feel I am a more improved player than when I was here previously and with the coaches, the staff and the manager I will be able to get even better."
In a touching Instagram post before the move was announced, he opened up about his battle against depression.
He said: "I lost my passion for the game I love due to mistakes that were made and also suffering from depression.
"My family have been strong for me and I thank each and everyone of my family.
"But most importantly my motivation for climbing out of the darkness and into the light has been my daughter, who I love dearly and care so much about."
After signing Ibe, manager Philip Cocu said: "Jordon is a player with a lot of potential and undoubted ability.
"He has performed for several years in the Premier League and at 24 years of age he still has many years ahead of him in his career."
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Ibe struggled to impress at Bournemouth after he joined for £15million from Liverpool.
He scored just five goals in 92 appearances across four seasons for the Cherries.
And his time at the club was plagued by a series off-field issues.
He was banned from driving after crashing his supercar into a London cafe last summer and was caught behind the wheel without a licence earlier this year.
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Ibe checked into rehab for help with his mental health but found himself in hot water in the spring when he flouted lockdown rules by going for a haircut.
During a Twitter Q&A in May, when asked about his difficulties of late, he replied: "No regrets, just need to apply myself."
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