City youngster Oisin Gallagher has returned to National League side Boston United on loan until January.
The 20-year-old caught the eye after starting in Tuesday’s Vertu Trophy win at Barnsley, starting the match at centre-back before moving into central midfield.
The Republic of Ireland U19 international's loan with Boston last season was cut short by injury suffered while representing the Pilgrims in February.
City's director of football Jez George said: “Tuesday was Oisin’s first competitive game since his ankle injury sustained playing for Boston against Barnet in February and a subsequent metatarsal injury in pre-season.
“It is huge credit to Oisin’s character, ability and the way in which he has worked so hard with his rehab, as well as our medical and sports science staff, that he could perform at such a high level against a strong Barnsley team after nine months out. Oisin now needs more games, so this loan makes sense for him and us before we then re-assess the best pathway for him in January.
“Anyone at Oakwell will have seen Oisin’s talent, potential and why we have such belief in him but after so long out injured, his next step needs to be as much competitive football as possible.”