Young Ipswich Town keeper Henry Gray has been recalled from his loan spell at National League South side Chelmsford City due to an 'injury to matchday keeper' at Portman Road.  

The 19-year-old joined the Clarets on loan in early December, and has kept nine clean-sheets in 22 league games in the sixth tier. 

East Anglian Daily Times: Henry Gray has impressed during his loan spell in Essex.Henry Gray has impressed during his loan spell in Essex. (Image: Roger Robinson Photography)

Manager Robbie Simpson said: "Unfortunately we received a call from Ipswich this morning saying that they wanted to recall Henry due to an injury to one of their keepers. They always have three matchday keepers so with one out injury it was Henry’s opportunity to step up." 

He added: "As much as we would have liked him to stay with us and get some further development in the playoff games, they have their own big picture to think about in terms of getting promoted to the Premier League.

"It is an unfortunate thing to happen to us but hopefully it will be a really good thing for Henry, so we thank him for all of his efforts for us and will be paying attention to his future closely." 

Gray has impressed during his stint at Chelmsford, along with fellow Town loanee Fin Barbrook, with the Essex side sitting second in the table and set for the play-offs. 

The Kiwi signed a two-year professional deal with the Blues last summer following a trial, joining from New Zealand Central League outfit Waterside Karori.